Apple Arcade, the company's video game subscription service for its extensive line of gadgets will reportedly cost $4.99 per month when it comes later this year.
According to a report by 9to5Mac, Arcade, which will be available for iPhone, Mac computers, iPad, Apple TV, and iPod Touch will be one affordable service, having spotted by the author in a promotional message found in an App Store API.
The blog got access to Apple's early access program for Apple Arcade over the weekend, which was announced back in March at the company's special event. The early access program has been made available to Apple employees for 49¢ per month until the end of the early access period, starting with a free trial for one entire month.
Take note that this isn't an official announcement from Apple itself, so pricing for the Apple Arcade could still change by the time the iPhone event happens next month. It's also possible that the $5 fee could be an introductory price to a subscription service with a catalog of over 100 games available for the company's various devices and platforms.
Gaming fans subscribed to Apple Arcade will enjoy titles from an extensive list of developers, including Usto, Snowman, Sega, Mistwalker, Lego, Konami, Klei Entertainment, Giant Squid, Finji, Cartoon Network, Bossa Studios, Annapurna Interactive, and more.
Games included with Apple Arcade may show up on PC or video game consoles, but they won't be released on Android or included with other subscription services.
According to Apple, subscribers are allowed to play on one Apple gadget and pick it up on another gadget. The titles available on the Arcade won't have ads, free of in-app purchases and subscriptions, and is capable of supporting up to six people.
Apple has worked with developers to ensure that huge games with stunning high definition graphics will still work on the iPhone. The investment made by the Cupertino-tech giant should help indie developers build new projects. For example, "Oceanhorn 2: Knights of the Lost Realm" is a sequel improving on one of the App Store's most critically acclaimed titles.
The early access test for Apple Arcade is still ongoing and will reportedly end when iOS 13 ships.
Apple's subscription services aren't exactly cheap - both Apple News Plus and Apple Music cost $10 per month. If Apple Arcade indeed does cost $5, it will be the first cheap subscription service for the company.
