Apple’s latest iOS 26 update might just spell the end for one of my favorite niche phone brands: the Asus ROG Phone.
Apple has unveiled a new Games app, and while it might not seem groundbreaking at first glance, after some thought, I’m starting to worry for the ROG Phone’s future.
The new Games app is essentially a game launcher designed to be used with a connected controller, transforming your iPhone into a portable gaming console. It comes with features like easy game discovery, updates on game seasons and limited-time events, and a social layer that allows for high score comparisons, friend challenges, and party invites. Simple, yet effective.
But why should this worry me? Well, for years, one of the complaints I had with the iPhone for gaming was the lack of a dedicated gaming mode. There was no way to lock brightness or block distracting notifications during intense gaming sessions.
Sure, Apple introduced a Gaming Focus mode with iOS 15, which can block notifications and prioritize certain apps or contacts. But you still need to manually activate it every time, and remember to deactivate it once you’re done. It’s a bit of a hassle, especially when you’re deep into a gaming session.
On Android, however, game launchers automatically recognize games and configure settings accordingly, without the need for manual setup. This is where Apple could improve-by making their Gaming Focus automatic and better integrated into the Games app.
Another issue with the iPhone’s current gaming experience is its auto-brightness. While Gaming Focus blocks notifications, it doesn’t stop brightness adjustments, which can be frustrating during intense moments when you’re holding the phone in a “claw grip.”
Looking ahead, Apple’s gaming ambitions seem to be growing. At WWDC 2025, they emphasized support for Sony controllers, hinting at a possible partnership. This could mean future games on iOS might come with first-class controller support, and potentially even more PlayStation titles ported to iPhones. If this happens, Android could be in serious trouble.
The ROG Phone has long been a favorite among mobile gamers, offering top-tier hardware like sensitive screens, ultrasonic shoulder buttons, fan attachments, and great speakers. However, the biggest downside has always been Android itself. Despite the powerful hardware, the Android platform lacks a robust library of high-quality, console-like games.
Yes, there have been some advancements with games like Call of Duty Mobile, Genshin Impact, and Diablo Immortal, but these titles often feel like they were designed specifically for mobile, with confusing menus, special currencies, and shallow gameplay.
In comparison, iOS has been consistently ahead in terms of bringing console-quality games to the mobile space. For instance, games like Assassin’s Creed: Mirage and Resident Evil Village are now available on iOS, while Android users are still stuck with watered-down versions like Assassin’s Creed Rebellion.
Apple is pushing hard into gaming, and this is bad news for the ROG Phone. While the iPhone’s gaming experience isn’t perfect yet, it’s getting there. With the recent acquisition of a gaming studio, Apple is clearly planning to take mobile gaming seriously. The future looks bright for iOS gamers, and unfortunately, the ROG Phone might be left behind.
It’s not all bad news for Android. The Nvidia Shield was one of the first devices to bring console games to mobile back in 2016, and Android had a chance to lead the charge. However, with the death of the Nvidia Shield and the loss of exclusive game deals, Android’s early progress in gaming seems like a missed opportunity. Still, it’s possible for Android to catch up-if Google can shift its focus back to gaming, rather than getting lost in AI.
As for the ROG Phone, it’s time for ASUS to act fast. The ROG Phone line has been drifting toward mainstream flagship territory, with flashy LED lights and less focus on its original gaming appeal. The ROG Phone 7 Ultimate might have been the last true gaming powerhouse, and it’s time for ASUS to double down on what made the brand special.
In conclusion, the rise of Apple’s gaming push might just end up killing the ROG Phone’s niche appeal. If Android doesn’t step up its game in the premium gaming department, the iPhone could be the new go-to for mobile gamers. What a shame that would be.