Apple releases Swift Playgrounds 2.0 with playground subscription options, more

The addition of subscriptions is perhaps the most substantial change to Swift Playgrounds version 2.0, as users can now subscribe to playgrounds from third-party creators. After browsing a developer's playground options, users can download selected content to receive alerts when new iterations are available.

In addition, the iPad app includes new robots accessible by tapping on the Add Subscriptions button. IBM's TJBot and Mekamon are among a slate of robots now supported by Apple's coding education app. Third-party robot playgrounds that were previously included in Swift Playgrounds have been moved to their respective author's page in the subscriptions section.

Among the slight changes to the app's user interface is a new content gallery that displays all playgrounds, including subscriptions, in a single view. The addition reduces clutter and shines a spotlight on the new subscriptions option.

Finally, a Locations button lets users open playgrounds from the Files app in iOS 11, while documentation for iOS features and commands is now accessible via a Help button and the tools menu.

Apple first debuted Swift Playgrounds in 2016 as part of efforts to teach people how to code using the company's Swift programming language. The software relies on a 3D world, animations and other interactive tools to teach basic coding techniques to users of all ages, even those who have no prior coding experience.

The last major update to Swift Playgrounds arrived in September when Apple introduced augmented reality challenges using ARKit, the ability to access iPad's camera, iOS 11 integrations and more.

Swift Playgrounds is a free 234.5MB download from the App Store.