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How to Activate the Apple Arcade Free Trial in 2025
Mobile gaming the way it should be.
Modern mobile gaming has been around for nearly 20 years, and in that time we've seen it evolve from simple time-wasters into full-fledged console-quality experiences in the palm of your hand. Today, the mobile landscape is bigger than ever, dominated by free-to-play titles constantly competing for your attention.
When Apple Arcade launched in 2019, it set out to offer a premium alternative, delivering a curated library of games with no in-app purchases or ads. Since then, it has quietly become one of the best gaming subscription services available, with hundreds of high-quality titles included in the monthly fee.
Read on for a full breakdown of Apple Arcade, including standout games, supported devices, and how to activate the free trial.
Does Apple Arcade Have a Free Trial?
Yes, Apple Arcade features a very generous 1-month trial to anyone interested in checking the service out. Even better, if you purchase an Apple device (like iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Apple TV), you'll get three months of Apple Arcade completely free.
What is Apple Arcade?
Apple Arcade has been around since 2019, launching to strong critical reception after years of mobile game shovelware and egregious microtransactions. Instead of doubling down on premium-priced mobile games, Apple took a Netflix-style, all-you-can-eat approach, giving users access to more than 200 games, all completely free of ads and in-game purchases.
In the six years since its debut, Apple has quietly built a fantastic catalog, frequently adding standout titles like Balatro, Vampire Survivors, Dead Cells, and Stardew Valley. It has also brought back enhanced versions of classic mobile hits like Angry Birds, Temple Run, and Jetpack Joyride.
What really makes Apple Arcade shine is its seamless integration with Apple’s ecosystem. A single subscription lets you play across nearly every Apple screen, including iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, and even Apple Vision Pro. If you prefer physical controls, you can use a mobile phone controller or any Bluetooth controller you already own, such as a DualSense or Xbox Wireless Controller.
Since Apple Arcade is exclusive to Apple devices, your save data syncs automatically through iCloud, allowing you to pick up where you left off on any device. Even better, your subscription can be shared with up to six family members as part of Family Sharing, so everyone can get in on the fun.
How Much Does Apple Arcade Cost?
Apple Arcade costs $6.99 per month after the free trial period. An annual plan is also available for $49.99 per year, but you have to manually change your subscription on your Apple device after subscribing to the monthly plan.
To do this, navigate to your Apple Account in the Settings app and tap on Subscriptions. Here, you can tap on Apple Arcade and convert it to an annual subscription.
How to Use Apple Arcade - Available Platforms
Apple Arcade is available on just about every modern Apple device including iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, and Apple Vision Pro.
Matthew Adler has written for IGN since 2019 covering all things gaming, tech, tabletop games, and more. You can follow him on the site formerly known as Twitter @MatthewAdler and watch him stream on Twitch.
