Apple News Plus has introduced a new game called Emoji Game, just in time for World Emoji Day. This engaging activity allows players to fill in the blanks of three short phrases using emojis and genmoji, striving to do so with the fewest moves possible. For example, a phrase like “- – – – – of my – – -” corresponds to “Apple of my eye,” where players would select 🍏 and 👀 as the appropriate emojis. Clues are provided for each phrase, but opting to see them will count against the player’s move total. Additionally, results can be tracked on Game Center leaderboards, and achievements can be shared through various platforms, including messaging apps and social media.
Lauren Kern, the editor-in-chief of Apple News, described Emoji Game as a delightful addition to their range of puzzles, making familiar emojis into a fun brainteaser. The game will be featured daily under the Puzzles section in the Apple News app. Furthermore, it will also be available in the upcoming Apple Games app, which aims to host other puzzles like crosswords and sudoku, enhancing the experience for subscribers of Apple News Plus.
The immediate response from the gaming community, particularly on the r/apple Subreddit, has been enthusiastic. Users have expressed their desire for the game in their own countries and shared their initial experiences with it, describing it as fun and enjoyable. This reflects the ongoing popularity of puzzle and word games, highlighting a growing appetite for digital entertainment that stimulates mental engagement through playful learning.
Currently, Emoji Game is accessible to Apple News Plus subscribers in English, specifically in the US and Canada. It is compatible with iPhones, iPads, and Macs that are running iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, or macOS 15.4 and later. This limited release showcases Apple’s strategy to cater to specific demographics while gradually expanding its game offerings to broader audiences.
The introduction of Emoji Game points to a broader trend in the tech industry, where companies continually innovate to provide more interactive and enjoyable user experiences. By leveraging the widespread appeal of emojis—symbols that resonate emotionally and culturally—Apple has managed to create a game that combines entertainment with cognitive challenge. This approach not only garners user engagement but also fosters community interaction through game sharing and competition.
In summary, Apple News Plus’s Emoji Game reflects a commitment to diversifying digital entertainment while emphasizing fun and interactivity. As the game continues to gain traction, it will be interesting to see how Apple expands its offerings and further engages its growing audience in creative ways that blend modern communication with traditional gaming elements.
