Apple has unveiled a new addition to its Apple News+ service: the ‘Emoji Game,’ a daily puzzle that challenges subscribers to complete phrases using emojis. This game is now accessible to users in the United States and Canada who are running iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, or macOS 15.4 and later versions.
The ‘Emoji Game’ presents players with three short phrases containing blank spaces. Participants must select appropriate emojis to fill these blanks, aiming to solve each puzzle in the fewest moves possible. For instance, if the word disappear appears as dis____ear, a player might drag the pear emoji into the blank spaces to complete the word. Each phrase includes an optional clue, but using it adds to the player’s total move count. Achieving a perfect score requires solving the puzzle in six moves. Players can track their progress through Game Center leaderboards and share results via Messages, Mail, social media, and other platforms. ([apple.com](https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2025/07/apple-news-plus-introduces-emoji-game/?utm_source=openai))
A distinctive feature of the ‘Emoji Game’ is the integration of Genmoji, custom emojis generated using Apple Intelligence. This technology allows for the creation of unique emojis beyond the standard Unicode set, adding a fresh and dynamic element to the game. For example, a Genmoji of a blender and a tomato might represent the word purée. ([techcrunch.com](https://techcrunch.com/2025/07/16/apple-news-adds-a-new-game-that-uses-emoji-and-genmoji-to-sovle-puzzles/?utm_source=openai))
Lauren Kern, editor-in-chief of Apple News, stated, Emoji Game is the perfect addition to the Apple News+ suite of word and number puzzles, turning the emoji we use every day into a brainteaser that’s approachable and fun. ([apple.com](https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2025/07/apple-news-plus-introduces-emoji-game/?utm_source=openai))
The ‘Emoji Game’ joins other puzzles available to Apple News+ subscribers, such as crosswords, mini crosswords, Quartiles, and Sudoku. These games are designed to enhance user engagement and provide additional value to the subscription service. Apple News+ is priced at $12.99 per month and can be shared with up to five family members through Family Sharing. ([9to5mac.com](https://9to5mac.com/2025/07/16/emoji-game-ios-apple-news/?utm_source=openai))
To access the ‘Emoji Game,’ subscribers can navigate to the Puzzles section within the Apple News app. Later this year, with the release of iOS 26, the game will also be available through the new Apple Games app, offering a centralized location for various games and enhanced social features. ([apple.com](https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2025/07/apple-news-plus-introduces-emoji-game/?utm_source=openai))
The introduction of the ‘Emoji Game’ reflects Apple’s ongoing efforts to diversify its content offerings and provide interactive experiences that resonate with users. By leveraging familiar elements like emojis and incorporating advanced AI technologies, Apple aims to create engaging and enjoyable content that encourages daily interaction and strengthens subscriber loyalty.
