Apple has recently acquired key assets and personnel from Rabbit 3 Times, the developer behind the acclaimed app design tool, Play. This acquisition was disclosed in February when Apple notified the European Commission, and the information has now been made public following a mandatory four-month waiting period.
Play was a versatile application available on both Mac and iPhone platforms, enabling designers to create interactive prototypes for iPhone apps utilizing Apple’s SwiftUI framework. These prototypes could then be seamlessly integrated into Xcode for further development. In recognition of its innovative approach, Play was honored with an Apple Design Award in 2025.
Apple praised Play as a sophisticated yet user-friendly tool that empowers users to build interactive prototypes with SwiftUI frameworks. The app’s well-designed interface facilitated real-time collaboration between Mac and iPhone, enhancing the creative process for designers.
Following the acquisition, Play has been removed from the App Store, indicating that Apple has integrated the app’s technology and team into its ecosystem. While specific plans have not been disclosed, it is anticipated that Apple will leverage Play’s intellectual property to enhance its development tools, particularly Xcode.
This strategic move underscores Apple’s commitment to providing developers with advanced tools for app creation. By incorporating Play’s innovative features, Apple aims to streamline the design and development process, potentially leading to more efficient workflows and higher-quality applications for its platforms.
