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Yahoo
18-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Apple Quietly Just Rolled Out a New iPhone Feature Earlier Than Expected
It was announced at WWDC, but Apple rolled it out ahead of iOS 26's fall release date. When iOS 26 is released this fall, it will introduce two new default apps to your iPhone's Home Screen. First, there will be a new Preview app that works very similarly to Mac's Preview app, allowing you to view and edit various documents and images. Second, there will be a dedicated games app, called Apple Games, which will act as a new home for Apple Arcade as well as all the other games you've installed on your iPhone. When this was announced at June's WWDC, Apple also unveiled a new original puzzle game, called the Emoji Game, which will be available in the Apple Games app. This game was originally set to be released with the Apple Games app, along with the rest of iOS 26's upcoming features. But, in celebration of World Emoji Day — which is today and, yes, apparently a thing — Apple has given select iPhone users early access to its new game. Apple's daily puzzle game The Emoji Game is essentially Apple's take on Wordle. The puzzle game requires users to fill in the blanks to complete phrases, but they must use emojis instead of normal letters and words. Hence, the Emoji Game. The game requires users to fill in the blanks of three short phrases by using as few moves as possible. According to Apple's press release, 'each phrase is accompanied by a clue, which the user can choose to reveal, but that will count toward the player's total number of moves.' Like with Wordle, Apple will release new Emoji Game puzzles daily. The results will be trackable on a Game Center leaderboard, which your friends and family will be able to see and compete against. Wait, there's a catch The Emoji Game is now available on all iPhones running the latest software (iOS 18.4), as well as iPads and Macs. However, not everybody can play it. In addition to having an up-to-date device, you also need to be a paying subscriber to Apple News+, which costs $13/month, in order to play it. (Apple does offer a one-month free trial.) Right now, if you subscribe to Apple News+, you can play the Emoji Game via the News app and going to the Puzzle section. When iOS 26 rolls out this fall, the Emoji Game will relocate to the all-new Apple Games app. Tucker Bowe has been on Gear Patrol's editorial team since 2014. As a Tech Staff Writer, he tracks everything in the consumer tech space, from headphones to smartphones, wearables to home theater systems. If it lights up or makes noise, he probably covers it.
Geeky Gadgets
04-07-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
iOS 26 Gathers Momentum: Deep Dive into the Latest Betas & Features
iOS 26 introduces a wide array of new features, design refinements, and performance upgrades aimed at enhancing the user experience. However, as with any early beta release, it comes with its share of challenges, such as overheating issues and inconsistent battery performance. If you're considering testing the beta, understanding its current state and potential improvements is essential to making an informed decision. The video below from iReviews gives us more details on iOS 26 and its range of features. Watch this video on YouTube. Notable Features and Design Improvements iOS 26 brings several updates designed to improve usability, functionality, and overall efficiency. These standout features aim to simplify everyday tasks and provide users with greater control over their devices: Photos App: Advanced editing tools now allow for precise image adjustments, giving users more creative control. Enhanced animations make navigating large photo libraries smoother and more intuitive. Advanced editing tools now allow for precise image adjustments, giving users more creative control. Enhanced animations make navigating large photo libraries smoother and more intuitive. Preview App: A brand-new addition to iOS, this app enables users to crop, flip, and access detailed metadata for images directly on their devices, eliminating the need for third-party tools. A brand-new addition to iOS, this app enables users to crop, flip, and access detailed metadata for images directly on their devices, eliminating the need for third-party tools. Podcast App: Playback speeds can now be customized on a show-by-show basis, offering a more personalized listening experience tailored to individual preferences. Playback speeds can now be customized on a show-by-show basis, offering a more personalized listening experience tailored to individual preferences. Mail App: A redesigned interface prominently displays unread email counts, making it easier to manage inboxes and prioritize important messages. A redesigned interface prominently displays unread email counts, making it easier to manage inboxes and prioritize important messages. Keyboard Settings: A revamped layout simplifies customization, improving typing efficiency and making it easier to personalize the keyboard to suit your needs. These updates reflect Apple's commitment to refining its ecosystem, making sure that users can perform tasks more efficiently while enjoying a seamless experience. Performance Enhancements and Current Challenges iOS 26 demonstrates clear performance improvements, with higher Geekbench scores indicating faster processing speeds and smoother multitasking. However, these gains come with certain trade-offs that beta testers should be aware of: Overheating: Many users have reported that devices tend to run hotter than usual during prolonged use, which could affect usability and potentially impact hardware longevity. Many users have reported that devices tend to run hotter than usual during prolonged use, which could affect usability and potentially impact hardware longevity. Battery Life: While some bugs affecting battery performance have been addressed, others persist, leading to inconsistent results. This may pose challenges for users who rely heavily on their devices throughout the day. These issues highlight the risks associated with early adoption, particularly for those who depend on their devices for critical tasks. While the beta offers a glimpse into the future of iOS, it may not yet be suitable for primary devices. Beta Release Schedule and Expectations The iOS 26 beta program is progressing steadily, with several key milestones on the horizon. These updates are expected to address existing issues and improve overall stability: Beta 3: Scheduled for release around July 7, this version is anticipated to resolve some of the current bugs, including those related to overheating and battery performance. Scheduled for release around July 7, this version is anticipated to resolve some of the current bugs, including those related to overheating and battery performance. Public Beta: Expected to launch on July 14 or 15, the public beta typically offers enhanced stability and performance, making it a safer choice for users who prioritize reliability. For those eager to explore iOS 26, waiting for the public beta may be the most prudent option. This version is likely to provide a more polished experience while minimizing disruptions. Recommendations for Beta Testers Testing the iOS 26 beta can be an exciting opportunity to explore new features before the official release. However, it's important to approach the process with caution to avoid unnecessary complications. Consider the following recommendations: Use a Secondary Device: Early beta versions are often unstable and prone to bugs, making them unsuitable for primary devices that you rely on daily. Early beta versions are often unstable and prone to bugs, making them unsuitable for primary devices that you rely on daily. Wait for the Public Beta: If stability and reliability are priorities, the public beta is a safer option, as it typically addresses many of the critical issues found in earlier releases. If stability and reliability are priorities, the public beta is a safer option, as it typically addresses many of the critical issues found in earlier releases. Stay Updated: Regularly check for updates and user feedback to stay informed about the beta's progress and any newly discovered issues. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the benefits of testing iOS 26 while minimizing potential risks to your device's functionality. Looking Ahead iOS 26 represents a significant step forward, offering innovative features and performance enhancements that aim to redefine the user experience. While the current beta stage highlights some challenges, such as overheating and battery inconsistencies, these are expected to improve as the beta program progresses. By staying informed and exercising caution, you can make the most of what iOS 26 has to offer while avoiding unnecessary disruptions. Expand your understanding of iOS 26 features with additional resources from our extensive library of articles. Source & Image Credit: iReviews Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
