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With iOS 26, Apple introduced two new system apps to the iPhone. One of them is Apple Games – a central hub for all gaming activities on iPhone, iPad, and Mac. The app brings together a wealth of information and features related to games in one place. In iOS 26.2, which will be released next month, the Games app will receive its first improvements. The second beta version for developers now provides a concrete preview of what's changing.
Apple Games was introduced as a new app with iOS 26. It combines various information and control options for mobile games. Live events, new game releases, trends among friends, and upcoming updates can all be discovered directly within the app. The personal game library displays not only installed titles but also previous downloads from the App Store. These can be filtered and sorted according to various criteria.
Additionally, the app supports invitations to multiplayer games or challenges with friends. If you're beaten in a game, you'll receive a notification and can react immediately. The goal is to provide a comprehensive gaming hub that offers both an overview and direct interaction – all within the Apple ecosystem.
Three specific new features in iOS 26.2
With iOS 26.2, Apple is specifically improving games for the first time. The changes are small, but clearly focused on the user experience. They were first integrated in Beta 1 and further expanded in Beta 2 – including a new welcome screen that highlights the new features.
New filter options in the game library
Starting with iOS 26.2, you can search your game library much more precisely. New filters have been added that allow you to display games based on specific criteria. These include:
- Games played by friends
- Titles with integrated support for challenges
- Games, sorted by file size
This simplifies managing the media library, especially with many installed or previously downloaded games. Those who value social features or storage space will now find suitable content more quickly.
Improved controller navigation within the app
Navigation with a connected controller is noticeably improved in iOS 26.2. Previously, certain actions required switching back to touch input. This has now changed: The entire Apple Games app can now be controlled via the controller. This optimization is primarily aimed at users who play with gamepads on iPad or Mac – but mobile gamers with controller accessories will also benefit.
Live updates of scores in challenges
In the new version, scores in ongoing challenges are updated in real time. During gameplay, it's immediately visible when a maximum score has been exceeded. This adds more dynamism to competitive matches. Feedback is instantaneous, without any delay. This fosters competition and makes challenges more exciting.
Focus on fine-tuning rather than reinvention
The new features in iOS 26.2 for Apple Games aren't fundamental changes, but rather targeted improvements to existing functions. They're not aimed at new users, but at everyone who already uses the app. This very focus demonstrates Apple's willingness to make improvements, even on a small scale, when it comes to user-friendliness. The fact that early community feedback is already being addressed in the second beta underscores this.
iOS 26.2 brings fine-tuning before the end of the year
iOS 26.2 is expected to be released next month. The update is currently in its second beta phase for developers. If the schedule is maintained, a release to all users should occur before the end of the year. The three aforementioned improvements to Apple Games could then be available for all devices running iOS 26 – that is, all compatible iPhones, iPads, and Macs. While iOS 26.2 isn't a major feature update, it delivers important refinements to an app that is intended to centralize the Apple gaming experience in the long term. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Apple)
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