Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) keynote this Monday may not have been as flashy as previous years, but it still brought a slew of new features for iPhone, iPad, Mac, and other Apple devices. This year, Apple focused on unifying its operating systems into a more cohesive family.
As usual, there was too much to cover in the keynote, with Apple dedicating a significant chunk of time to iOS 26. Even with 28 minutes spent on the topic, there were still many features left unexplored.
One hidden gem that emerged in the first iOS 26 developer beta is a new puzzle experience integrated into Apple News. Building on the success of crossword puzzles and Sudoku introduced in previous iOS versions, Apple has now introduced The Emoji Game for Apple News+ subscribers.
Welcome to The Emoji Game
The Emoji Game adds a creative twist to traditional word puzzles by using emojis to represent words or phrases. Players must decipher the meaning behind the emoji groups and fill in the blanks to complete the phrases. It’s a unique challenge that requires both logic and creativity.
Each puzzle consists of three phrases and six emoji groups. Players aim to place each emoji in the correct spot with the fewest moves possible. The game offers clues in the form of one or two words for each phrase, adding an extra layer of complexity.
The Emoji Game is not as easy as it seems, as players must think outside the box to connect the emoji representations with the phrases. It’s a test of both visual and linguistic skills, making for a fun and engaging puzzle experience.
Like other puzzles in Apple News, The Emoji Game requires a News+ subscription and integrates with the new Games app. Players can track their streaks and compare scores with others, adding a competitive element to the gameplay.
Despite being in the early stages, The Emoji Game already offers a backlog of puzzles dating back to May 30, 2025, providing ample entertainment for Apple News+ subscribers.
