The Guardian launched its first iPhone application today , providing readers with instant access to the latest news stories and multimedia features, including full-screen photo galleries and audio podcasts, on their Apple smartphones.
The application allows users to change the home page and prioritise content most relevant to them, including writing from columnists such as Charlie Brooker and Polly Toynbee. There is also an offline mode allowing users to download content that can be read when there is no mobile signal. iPhone users can download the application for £2.39.
Jonathan Moore, the Guardian's mobile product manager, said key aims in the development of the application were fast downloading, individual customisation, an elegant design and ease of navigation.
Emily Bell, director of digital content, for Guardian publisher Guardian News & Media, said: "For a long time, the paper and the web were similar in various ways, but today the web is very different. Making content available on different platforms is the key as it is fundamental to success in the digital world.
"Anyone who thinks that the internet just looks like a desktop screen is somewhat behind. That might largely have been the fact five or six years ago. Now, it is clear that the web is highly distributive, so reaching out to your reader you have to engage on different platforms."
Last night, the application became the top paid-for app in the UK. More than 2 million people have downloaded the New York Times's iPhone application.
Apple's iPhone launched in June 2007 and it now has about 30 million users globally. A further 20 million users of the Apple iTouch – which offers wireless web access – can also download applications.
Newspaper publishers wrestling with how to make money online as print revenues decline are also hoping that mobile users may provide a new source of income. The Daily Telegraph offers its iPhone application free, with advertising, while the Financial Times provides a free application but asks readers to pay for content after clicking on 10 articles.
"Trying to convince readers to pay for news content on a PC is going to be incredibly difficult, so it's no surprise that newspapers are looking to mobile apps as a way to raise funds," said Tom Dunmore, consulting editor of Stuff magazine
He added: "iPhone users have shown themselves willing to pay for personalised experiences. I'm sure the Guardian app will find a large audience who will be proud to file the Guardian alongside their games and messaging apps."
Monday, December 14, 2009
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