NYTimes - Crossword for iPhone

Overview of the app experience

The New York Times Crossword app delivers the same crossword puzzles that appear in the newspaper, rebuilt for phones and tablets. It includes the weekday and Sunday puzzles plus several bite-sized puzzle options for quicker play sessions. New puzzles are posted in the evening before publication so you can solve the next day’s puzzle ahead of time.

When the daily puzzle is released

Puzzles for the coming day become available around 10:00 PM the night before the print edition is released. That makes it possible to practice or finish the puzzle the evening prior, rather than waiting for the morning paper.

Quick-play options for busy schedules

For players who have limited time, the app offers shorter formats that focus on fast gameplay and a compact challenge. These mini or short puzzles are designed to be completed in a few minutes and are ideal for commuting or quick breaks.

• Mini crosswords and short-form puzzles for a fast solve
• Full daily puzzles that match the print edition
• Archived and themed puzzle packs for deeper sessions

Subscription features and archive access

There are several subscription choices available. Paid plans commonly unlock additional content, including extended archives and synchronization with the New York Times website.

• Access to the crossword on the New York Times website for cross-platform play
• Multi-year archives with decades of past puzzles to practice and explore
• Extra tools and features available to paying subscribers (hints, progress tracking, etc.)

Other app suggestions and notes

If you’re exploring alternatives or other types of mobile games, one listing includes Garena Free Fire MAX — note that this title is a different genre (action/shooter) rather than a word puzzle. For more word-focused options, look for apps labeled specifically as crossword, word-search, or puzzle collections.

Why many players choose it

The New York Times Crossword remains one of the most widely recognized and respected crossword sources. The app makes that daily challenge portable, adds shorter puzzle formats, and gives subscribers access to a large archive, making it suitable for both casual players and dedicated solvers.