Apple is planning to add a second front-facing camera to the iPad Pro, while also launching a new emoji-based word game exclusively for its News+ subscribers.
TLDR:
- Apple may introduce a second front-facing camera on the 2025 iPad Pro to improve usability in portrait mode.
- The change comes after complaints from users about the iPad Pro (2024) shifting its camera to landscape orientation.
- The new tablet is expected to feature the upcoming M5 chip and retain previous upgrades like OLED screens.
- Meanwhile, Apple has launched a new Emoji Game for News+ subscribers across iPhone, iPad, and Mac.
Apple is reportedly planning a practical camera update for its next iPad Pro by adding a second front-facing lens, allowing better functionality in both portrait and landscape orientations. This change addresses user frustrations with the current single-camera layout. At the same time, Apple has quietly rolled out a new emoji-based word game for News+ subscribers, expanding its efforts in premium content and engagement.
Apple Could Add a Portrait Camera to the iPad Pro
The iPad Pro (2024) featured several hardware upgrades, but one design tweak caused friction: Apple moved the front-facing camera from the portrait edge to the landscape edge. This suited video calls when using a keyboard, but left many users annoyed when holding the tablet vertically for selfies or Face ID.
In response, Apple might introduce a second front-facing camera positioned along the portrait edge in the 2025 iPad Pro, according to journalist Mark Gurman in his Power On newsletter. This would allow users to unlock their device or take selfies no matter which orientation the tablet is held.
Key details include:
- The second camera would restore portrait usability without disrupting users who prefer the new landscape setup.
- The model is expected to include Apple’s M5 chip and enter mass production in the second half of 2025.
- It may retain features from the current generation such as tandem OLED displays, nano-texture coating, and landscape camera positioning.
Gurman called the upgrade “a nice enhancement,” highlighting that it’s not a revolutionary change but a practical fix to a real user pain point.
Emoji Game Launches on Apple News+
In a separate move to boost user engagement, Apple has launched the Emoji Game exclusively for its News+ subscribers in the US and Canada, timed with World Emoji Day.
The game is available on devices running iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, or macOS 15.4 and higher. It blends emoji with word puzzle mechanics, similar to games like Wordle.
Here’s how it works:
- Users are given phrases with missing words and must complete them using emojis.
- For example, to complete the word “pineapple,” users might insert the “apple” emoji.
- The game includes Genmoji, custom emojis powered by Apple Intelligence.
- Clues are available but cost one of the limited moves in each round.
- Each game consists of three phrases to solve per round.
Currently, the game can be played through the Puzzles section of the Apple News app, and Apple says it will also be available in its upcoming Apple Games app later this year.
TechKV’s Takeaway
I really like how Apple is addressing a real user issue with the iPad Pro’s camera by adding a second one. It’s such a simple fix that shows they’re paying attention. No over-the-top redesign, just making things more usable. And the emoji game? Honestly, it’s a clever way to keep News+ subscribers entertained. Games like Wordle became a habit for many, and combining emojis with puzzles is a smart twist. It’s fun, light, and ties well with Apple’s playful side.
