Exclusive: Apple working on new App Store-like app dedicated to games

It’s been a month since Apple released iOS 18 to the public, but the company is already working on future software updates. Interestingly, as Apple has been investing more in gaming, it seems that the company is now working on a new App Store-like app dedicated to games.

Apple developing a new gaming hub for iOS

9to5Mac has learned details about the new project from reliable sources familiar with the matter. The new app combines functionality from the App Store and Game Center in one place. The gaming app is not expected to replace Game Center. In fact, it will integrate with the user’s Game Center profile.

According to our sources, the app will have multiple tabs, including a “Play Now” tab, a tab for the user’s games, friends, and more. In Play Now, users will find editorial content and game suggestions. The app will also show things like challenges, leaderboards, and achievements. Games from both the App Store and Apple Arcade will be featured in the new store.

The app will also promote special gaming events and information about important updates. In addition, Apple is reportedly experimenting with some kind of integration with FaceTime and iMessage in its new gaming app – possibly to help players communicate with each other. The company is also exploring letting developers provide mini games based on App Clips.

In practice, the app would work like the Xbox app for iPhone, where players can see their status, friends’ activities, search for new games and check their game library. Presumably, Apple wants to make its devices more appealing to gamers with the new app.

Apple currently has Apple Arcade, which is a subscription service that provides access to multiple games for iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV. The platform is integrated with the App Store and costs $6.99 per month. With iOS 18 and macOS 15, Apple has introduced new tools to help developers port Mac games to iOS.

As for the new gaming app, it’s unclear whether Apple plans to introduce it next year with a future iOS 18 update or as part of iOS 19.

Read also

• Windows ARM PCs struggle to run games, and Apple may now have an advantage
• Report shows that AAA games for iPhone and iPad aren’t exactly a hit with users
• Rare game sale on Mac App Store includes AAA titles and Apple Design Award winner
• Your iPhone is getting a dedicated Game Mode in iOS 18, here’s what that means
• Great deals on game controllers for your iPhone, iPad and Mac