Apple Arcade goes online for iOS 13 beta testers

A few days before its scheduled launch on Sept. 19, Apple Arcade is now online and accepts subscriptions from Apple's iOS 13 beta program. Bloomberg Mark Gurman tweeted Apple's gaming service, which opens up access to dozens of ad-free games for a monthly subscription, was up and running. Many other people have had access to devices enrolled in the iOS 13 public beta.

Subscriptions appear to be in process, including Apple's month-long free trial, and games can be downloaded and played immediately. More than 50 titles are available at launch.

The edge has contacted Apple to see if these early beginnings for beta customers are intentional and to confirm that Apple Arcade will remain available to those who are watching it now. The company today issued a press release on Apple Arcade. Its director, Phil Schiller, tweeted it. It does not seem to be an accident. The Apple version, however, does not mention anything about the fact that the service is available early for beta testers.

Apple Arcade works on iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Apple TV and Mac computers, allowing subscribers to choose where they left off on their devices. All titles offered as part of this service do not include any advertising or in-app purchases. You can see if access has been granted by opening the App Store and selecting the Arcade tab. The previous message about the upcoming Apple Arcade should now read "Try it for free."