Apple News+ subscribers in the United States and Canada can now enjoy Sudoku as part of their daily puzzle offerings. The addition, introduced in the first developer beta of iOS 18.2, gives users another mental challenge alongside the platform’s existing Crossword and Quartiles games.
Expanding Puzzle Options
The popular logic-based game Sudoku joins the lineup of Apple News+ puzzles. Like its paper-based counterpart, the digital version challenges players to fill a nine-by-nine grid with the numbers 1 through 9. Each row, column, and three-by-three box must contain each number without repetition. The game requires logic and concentration, as players deduce the correct numbers for empty spaces based on the rules.
Apple’s Sudoku offers three difficulty levels, catering to a wide range of skill levels. Additionally, the game keeps track of a user’s completion rate, motivating regular players to improve their scores. This new offering strengthens Apple’s effort to make Apple News+ more interactive by engaging users with daily mental challenges.
Availability and Requirements
Currently, Sudoku is available exclusively to Apple News+ subscribers in the U.S. and Canada who are running iOS 18.2. For now, the feature works on the latest iPhone models, including the iPhone 15 Pro and all iPhone 16 models. Apple is expected to broaden access as iOS 18.2 becomes more widely available across compatible devices.
Apple’s Continued Focus on Interactive Content
The addition of Sudoku reflects Apple’s broader strategy to enhance Apple News+ with features that go beyond traditional news articles. Earlier in 2024, Apple introduced Quartiles and a daily crossword feature, which quickly gained popularity. By offering games like Sudoku, Apple encourages users to engage more with the app, providing both entertainment and cognitive challenges.
As iOS 18.2 rolls out to more users, Apple News+ subscribers can look forward to exploring these new features. The expansion of puzzle options underscores Apple’s commitment to creating a more versatile and engaging digital experience.
