- Apple is working on a new games app that will launch with iOS 19.
- It will work similarly to the Xbox app and act as a hub for all your gaming needs.
- The new app will debut at WWDC and replace the decade-old Game Center.
Apple is set to host its annual developers conference, WWDC, next month. The Cupertino giant will announce plenty of new stuff, including the next version of iOS and macOS. Apart from a new visually appealing design, iOS 19 will get a new Games app to replace the aging Game Center. It will function similarly to the Xbox app, serving as a one-stop shop for all your gaming needs.
Apple’s New Games App Will Function Similar To Xbox
According to a report by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple will launch a new Games app on iPhone. Unlike the Games Centre, which is pretty barebones and made its debut a decade ago.
Apple’s announcement will take place just two days before Nintendo Switch 2′s sale, so mobile gamers have some exciting days ahead. WWDC (World Wide Developers Conference) will take place from June 9-13 at Apple Park.
This new app will be closer to the Xbox app, allowing users to launch games, show achievements, check the leaderboard, and communicate with other players. Furthermore, the new Games app will be preinstalled on the iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV.
Also Read:
- 12 Underrated iOS Apps You Should Download Now (May 2025)
- iOS 18.4: The Big Update – Everything You Need to Know
Apart from this, Apple will promote editorial content about new games, access to the App Store section, and its Arcade service. The premium gaming service costs $6.99 per month, offering a curation of paid games.
Why Is Apple Making A New Games App?
Currently, iPhone lacks a dedicated gaming app, something which Google and Samsung already offer with the Play Games and Samsung Gaming Hub. Moreover, this new gaming app will be available on iOS, iPadOS, and even macOS.
Apple has also bought RAC7Games, the developer known for the popular game Sneaky Sasquatch. The company wants to capitalize on the fact that iPhones are the most popular gaming devices in the world.
Interestingly, two-thirds of the revenue for Apple’s App Store comes from in-app purchases and games. These include level unlocks, tokens and other upgrades.
With AAA games like Assassin’s Creed Mirage and Resident Evil Village now on iPhone, Apple wants to take the next step for mobile gamers. With the rising popularity of handhelds like Nintendo Switch 2 and Steam Deck, it wants a share of the mobile gaming market.
iOS 19 Expected Features
The new gaming app will debut with iOS 19 when it launches later this year in September. iOS 19 will feature a new solarium design, which is said to be the biggest visual overhaul since iOS 7.
Furthermore, iOS 19 will introduce new battery management and heath features using Apple Intelligence. With live translation support on AirPods and a revamped Translate app, it will compete with the likes of Google Translate.
Other possible iOS 19 features include a new bidirectional Arabic and English keyboard, a new virtual calligraphy pen for Apple Pencil. Moreover, a new feature will automatically sync Wi-Fi login details across devices.
We will get more details about iOS 19 and Apple’s new games app at WWDC 2025. However, to experience the new games app, you will need to wait until September when iOS 19 rollout begins.
