Hot Five: Apple’s dedicated gaming app, Minecraft's mobile revenue surge, and earnings per install rise industry-wide
To help get you primed and ready for another week in mobile gaming, we’ve curated the biggest stories you need to know from the last seven days.
1) Apple to launch dedicated gaming app across all devices this year
Apple is reportedly developing a dedicated games app for iOS devices, which could come preinstalled on iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV later this year.
Replacing the Game Center, the new app will supposedly include editorial content on new titles, direct access to the App Store’s games section and promotion of Apple Arcade. It is expected to be unveiled on June 9th at WWDC.
2) Apple acquires Sneaky Sasquatch developer RAC7
Apple has acquired Sneaky Sasquatch developer RAC7 for an undisclosed fee.
The task-based adventure game launched on Apple Arcade in 2019 and is one of the subscription service’s most recognised games. Now, Apple will help the developer expand its two-person team.
3) Minecraft mobile revenue surges 44% following movie release
In-app purchases for Minecraft on mobile rose by 44% following the release of A Minecraft Movie, according to Sensor Tower.
Active users on mobile also increased by 9%, peaking at over 10.5 million DAUs. Active users on console rose by 41%.
4) Apple faces further DMA fines as EU gives compliance deadline
Apple now has less than 30 days to change its App Store rules to enable linkouts without fees.
The European Commission has ordered Apple to cease and desist with non-compliance of the Digital Markets Act and said that it will impose periodic penalty payments on Apple if it fails to comply, following the initial fine of €500m.
Average consumer spending per mobile game install rose to $1.52 in 2024, according to Appfigures’ latest report.
This marked a year-over-year increase of 11%, despite global installs falling by 7% over the same timeframe.
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