Apple is gearing up to unveil a new gaming app at its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in 2025, marking a significant push into the gaming sector. The conference, which is scheduled to take place from June 9 to 13, will be accessible online for free to all developers, as the event continues to be a major platform for Apple's latest software and technology announcements.
Industry observers are keenly watching this move as Apple plans to replace its existing Game Center with a standalone gaming app that will likely promote Apple Arcade. According to Laptopmag.com, this shift comes on the heels of Epic Games' legal victory that allows third-party app stores, potentially altering the app ecosystem. Apple's announcement is particularly timely, as it coincides with the release of Nintendo's Switch 2 console, which will hit the global market on June 5 at a price point starting from $449, with rapid sell-outs reported across U.S. pre-orders.
Apple's gaming strategy appears to be well-calibrated, highlighted by its recent acquisition of game developer RAC7. This suggests a concerted effort to boost its gaming offerings. The new app is expected to feature enhanced capabilities such as Play Now, leaderboards, and real-time communication, aiming to deliver a cohesive gaming experience that rivals other major platforms.