iOS 17: Mastering Daily Crossword Puzzles on Your iPhone’s News App
Learn how to access and play crossword puzzles in the Apple News app as an Apple News Plus subscriber.
Apple always finds ways to keep us entertained and challenged with their new iOS updates. With the release of iOS 17.4 earlier this year, they introduced a delightful addition to the News app - crossword puzzles! These brain-teasing games not only provide a fun way to pass the time but also offer numerous cognitive benefits. According to a study published in the Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, crossword puzzles can help enhance vocabulary, stimulate critical thinking, and even boost confidence. So, if you're an Apple News Plus subscriber, get ready to sharpen your mind and have some fun!
How to Access Crossword Puzzles in Apple News
If you're eager to tackle daily crossword puzzles on your iPhone, the process is simple. As an Apple News Plus subscriber, follow these steps to start playing:
- Open the Apple News app on your device.
- Tap on "Following" in the menu at the bottom of your screen.
- Select "Puzzles."
From the Puzzles page, you'll find the latest crosswords for the week. Additionally, you can choose between the regular Crossword or the Crossword Mini, which offers smaller puzzles in a 5x5 grid. Pick your challenge and dive right in!
Alternatively, you can access crossword puzzles by navigating to Apple News > Today and scrolling down until you spot the "Latest Puzzles" section. While this option may require a bit more scrolling, it's another route to reach your daily brain workout.
Playing the Puzzles: Grid View vs. List View
Once you've selected a puzzle to solve, you'll have two viewing options: grid view and list view. Each mode offers a unique way to tackle the clues and fill in the answers.
- Grid View: This classic crossword layout displays the full grid, allowing you to tap on squares for clues. You can switch between vertical and horizontal clues by tapping on a square.
- List View: In this format, you'll see all the clues listed along with the number of letters in each answer. Tap the bulleted list icon in the top left corner to access this view. As you enter letters, intersections in the grid will populate with the correct letters.
Personally, I prefer the grid view as it gives me the traditional crossword puzzle experience. However, if you're looking for a different challenge, give the list view a try!
Explore a Variety of Puzzles
With two new puzzles available daily - a standard crossword and a mini version - you'll always have fresh challenges to tackle. If you're craving more, check out the archive of past crosswords by following these steps:
- Select either Crossword or Crossword Mini.
- Scroll down below the Latest Puzzles section.
- Tap on "Archive" to access previous puzzles dating back to June 2023.
By exploring different puzzles and honing your skills, you'll not only enjoy hours of entertainment but also reap the cognitive benefits that come with solving these brain teasers.
For more exciting features and updates on iOS 17, be sure to check out the latest news on iOS 17.4 and iOS 17.3. Stay informed and make the most of your Apple devices!
Hey, I'm Saadat Qureshi, your guide through the exciting worlds of education and technology. Originally from Karachi and a proud alum of the University of Birmingham, I'm now back in Karachi, Pakistan, exploring the intersection of learning and tech. Stick around for my fresh takes on the digital revolution! Connect With Me