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9h ago

Apple Sports Adds World Cup Features and Expands to More Than 170 Countries

The push signals Apple’s bid to make the iPhone the default second screen for global soccer fans.

Just in time for the World Cup, the Apple Sports app is now available in more than 170 countries and regions.
Apple Sports expands to over 170 countries for FIFA World Cup
Image
An iPhone and Apple Watch with Apple Sports app Live Activities.

Overview

  • Apple’s version 4.0 update, released Tuesday, adds a World Cup bracket, visual lineups that show live formations and substitutions, and real-time match tracking.
  • Availability grew by more than 90 markets to over 170 countries and regions, with new rollouts across Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa including Australia, Japan, India, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and South Africa.
  • Following a team triggers Live Activities on the iPhone Lock Screen and Apple Watch for at‑a‑glance scores and key moments, which requires iOS 18 and watchOS 11.
  • The app links users to live broadcasts by jumping into the Apple TV app, and Apple News offers one‑tap tournament coverage in the U.S., U.K., Canada, and Australia.
  • The software remains iPhone‑only and free to download, with widgets available for iPhone, iPad, and Mac to track the tournament without opening the app.