Developer: FOX News Digital
Price: FREE
Version Reviewed: 1.2.4
Device Reviewed On: iPhone 4
FOX News as a news network has quite a divided reputation. While some people may swear by the quality of its news coverage (and it’s certainly popular), others complain of its bias and often staunchly conservative viewpoints. In terms of this review though, I don’t think politics should play a role. Those who have no interest in the network will understandably pass this app by regardless of this quality, but quality is exactly what should be analyzed.
In terms of quality, the FOX News is excellent. It offers pretty much everything anyone could want from a news app and throughout, it’s fast and simple to use. For those keen on seeing more text than imagery, the portrait view of the app offers text heavy content while the landscape view provides a ticker to scroll information across the screen along with bigger and better images. It’s a potent mix.
News wise, there’s something for everyone. Top stories covers all the major issues of the day while tech fans and entertainment addicts aren’t left out either. Amongst the ten categories is an opinion section that adds some interesting op-ed pieces too.
Outside of the more typical news stories, a video section provides some more eventful coverage but again broken down into the respective categories to ensure plenty of content. Videos load swiftly plus there’s the option to watch FoxNews.com live through the app (even for international users such as myself). Further interactivity is offered through the Slideshow section and the ability to view shows such as America Live and Geraldo at Large. Audio shows are also available.
The one thing this app isn’t short on is content, right down to the constant weather ticker in the corner of the app keeping users abreast of the weather in their area.
Regardless of opinions on the quality of the actual writing, FOX News is a news app that other networks really should take note of. It’s refreshing to be able to keep up to date without being sent to a Safari window or feeling restricted in any way.