Jamie Spencer
As U.S. voters head to the polls, Apple News is offering iPhone and iPad users the ability to follow live election updates right from their lockscreens. Apple’s new feature will deliver real-time electoral counts and results for the 2024 presidential, Senate, and House races, keeping users informed while they go about their day.
Users with newer iPhone models can even monitor the electoral count through the Dynamic Island feature, allowing them to track the election while multitasking on their devices.
How to Activate Live Election Updates
To start receiving these updates, users need to opt in by opening the Apple News app and tapping the “Follow the 2024 election live” banner. If the banner doesn’t appear immediately, it can be found under the “Election 2024” section in the “Special Coverage” menu. Once activated, users will receive a notification confirming that Live Activity has been enabled, which will allow the widget to display on their lockscreen.
This feature will be available on iPhones, iPads, and Apple Watches, starting on election night as votes are tallied across the country.
Dynamic Island for Real-Time Results
For those with recent iPhone models, the Dynamic Island will offer a seamless way to track the election in real-time. The live widget will display the electoral count for the presidential candidates—Donald Trump and Kamala Harris—as well as results for Senate and House races, giving users constant updates without needing to open an app.
Apple’s Continued Focus on Live News Coverage
This is not the first time Apple has integrated Live Activities into its news platform. Earlier this year, Apple used similar tools to share live caucus results. As election night progresses, Apple News aims to keep its users informed through this innovative, real-time feature.
While Apple hasn’t shared further details about the election updates, the live tracking feature will offer a convenient way for users to stay engaged with the results, all without interrupting their regular phone usage.
