Goodbye Game Center, this is how iOS 26 seeks to bring the gaming experience together in one place

During WWDC 2025, Apple not only presented its advances in terms of its operating systems on its devices but also showed one of its most ambitious adjustments in gaming. With the arrival of the now named iOS 26 this fall, users will be able to access Games, a new app that brings together the entire gaming experience in one place.

Here’s how the new Games app works

For the first time, games downloaded from the App Store, Apple Arcade titles, and Game Center features will exist together within a single app. The app will function as a unified library where you can see all the games you have purchased or downloaded, regardless of whether they came from the store or the subscription service.

In addition, there will be a space dedicated exclusively to Apple Arcade, providing easy access to its more than 200 titles. All activity related to achievements, scores, friendships, and leaderboards will also be natively integrated, making the app a true hub for any gamer within the Apple ecosystem. Added to this is Play Together, a social tab that shows in real time what your friends are playing and allows you to join them in multiplayer games or challenge them without having to navigate between different apps.

Full screen

Game Overlay: social tools without interrupting the game

Another new feature is the introduction of Game Overlay on iPadOS 26 and macOS Tahoe. This floating layer provides access to social tools without leaving the game. With this feature, you can invite friends to a session, check the leaderboards, and accept challenges in real time with an adapted interface. This feature is reminiscent of console overlays, such as those on Xbox, PlayStation, and Android, but with Apple’s characteristic approach to design and simplicity.

Availability of iOS 26 and compatible devices

The new Games app will arrive with iOS 26, whose beta for developers has been available since June 9. The public release is expected in September, coinciding with the new iPhone generation. In addition, it will also be available on iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe, tvOS 26, and other devices in the Apple ecosystem.

Follow MeriStation USA on X (formerly known as Twitter). Your video game and entertainment website for all the news, updates, and breaking news from the world of video games, movies, series, manga, and anime. Previews, reviews, interviews, trailers, gameplay, podcasts and more! Follow us now!