Tag: Apple Arcade

  • Apple’s iCloud+ Expansion in India Adds Apple TV, Arcade, and Music Select

    Apple has started rolling out an expanded iCloud+ subscription in India, now bundling Apple TV and Apple Arcade at no extra cost. The updated plans also introduce Apple Music Select, a new ad-free music station feature. Meanwhile, Apple One subscriptions are being closed to new users in the country.

    Apple TV and Apple Arcade Now Included

    The new iCloud+ plan gives subscribers access to Apple TV content and Apple Arcade’s library of over 200 games, including titles like Hello Kitty Island Adventure, Sneaky Sasquatch, and Football Manager 26 Touch. Users began receiving notifications about the updated plan, which combines cloud storage with video streaming and gaming services.

    The iCloud+ plan starts at Rs. 75 per month for 50GB of storage, with higher storage options available. Subscribers can share their plan with up to five family members through Family Sharing.

    Apple Music Select Added

    Apple is also adding Apple Music Select to the package for Indian users. This feature offers ad-free music stations within the existing Apple Music app. It does not provide the full Apple Music subscription; users who want complete access can subscribe separately. For iCloud+ users, Apple lists the Individual plan at Rs. 115 per month and the Family plan at Rs. 145 per month.

    The company is ending direct standalone subscriptions for Apple TV and Apple Arcade in India. Existing subscribers will continue accessing these services through their iCloud+ plans. Apple assured that Arcade game progress and saved data will be preserved.

    Apple One Closed to New Subscribers

    Apple is also closing Apple One subscriptions to new customers in India. Existing Apple One subscribers will continue with their current plans. Apple One previously combined services such as Apple Music, Apple TV, Apple Arcade, and iCloud+ storage, priced at Rs. 195 per month for an Individual plan and Rs. 365 per month for a Family plan.

    The expanded iCloud+ offering will roll out through September across more than 100 countries and regions, with India among the first markets to receive the new subscription structure.

  • Apple’s Gaming Push: iPhone Controllers on the Horizon

    Apple’s Gaming Push: iPhone Controllers on the Horizon

    Apple appears to be making a serious move into mobile gaming hardware. Reports indicate the company is developing two dedicated game controllers specifically designed for the iPhone. If true, this could add a first-party accessory layer to Apple’s existing gaming ecosystem, which already supports third-party controllers from Xbox, PlayStation, and others.

    Two Controller Designs in the Works

    According to references found in macOS code, Apple is working on two distinct controller models rather than a single universal design. While the exact specs remain under wraps, the controllers are reportedly intended for iPhone use. Apple has not officially announced either product, but the discovery points to a clear intention to enter the hardware side of gaming.

    The Beats Brand May Take the Spotlight

    Instead of carrying the Apple name, these controllers might launch under the Beats brand. That would give Apple a way to tap into gaming accessories with a lifestyle-oriented image that resonates with younger audiences. Beats already sells iPhone accessories like cases and USB-C cables, so a controller extension would be a natural fit.

    Dedicated Controls Could Elevate iPhone Gaming

    A first-party controller could make the iPhone more attractive for games that demand physical controls. Currently, Apple devices support a range of Bluetooth gamepads, but tighter integration between hardware, iOS, and compatible games could significantly improve the experience. This might encourage developers to craft more console-style titles for the platform.

    Two Models for Different Users

    Reports suggest the two controllers could target different segments of the market. One might be a simpler, wired option for casual gamers, while the other could offer wireless connectivity and motion sensors for a more immersive experience. Although details are unconfirmed, a dual approach would allow Apple to cater to both casual and serious mobile gamers.

    Building on Existing Controller Support

    Custom game controllers are not new to Apple devices. Compatible hardware already works across iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, and Vision Pro, with support for remappable buttons and custom settings. A first-party controller would deepen that integration, potentially offering features like automatic pairing, battery monitoring, and optimized input latency.

    Apple Arcade and the Services Ecosystem

    Apple’s gaming push is closely tied to its services strategy. A dedicated controller could make Apple Arcade and controller-supported App Store games more compelling on the iPhone. It might also inspire developers to design richer, more complex gaming experiences that take full advantage of Apple’s hardware and software ecosystem.

    While Apple has not confirmed these plans, the prospect of first-party gaming controllers is an exciting development for mobile gamers. With the potential to blend hardware and services seamlessly, Apple could be preparing to make iPhone gaming a more serious proposition than ever before.