Developer: CNN Interactive Group
Price: Free
Version: 1.2.3
App Reviewed on: iPhone 4
With online streaming services such as Hulu, Netflix and Fandor becoming the go-to choices for entertainment it’s only time before there is no such thing as a cable bill over $100. I, for one, consume all media through Apple TV, Xbox or my iMac and MacBook. One more app I can say that I’ve added to my news roundup is the new CNN App for iPhone.
The Newsy team does an incredible job giving its users a summary of news, but CNN is a source for breaking news and in-depth stories that viewers can’t get anywhere else. Better yet, it’s live CNN TV for the most up-to-date news. Sadly, live TV is only available for cable subscribers. This is my only gripe, but then again, I’m a cable cutter and hopefully media companies will finally realize that streaming without a cable subscription is the wave of the future.
While the app features domestic news it also has highlights for international and of course dives into the different segments, including politics, tech and entertainment headlines. However, the latest 1.2.3 update seems to have a few negative comments about switching from current videos to breaking news.
The new CNN app is extremely easy to navigate as the different categories, including headlines, video, live TV and iReport are displayed at the bottom and are one touch away. One of the great features of the app is the iReport function, which puts the consumer in the newsroom for a change. Within the screen, users can see featured reports, submit their own or checkout assignments from CNN. These are straight from CNN and are actually very interesting. For instance, there is one about Shaquille O’Neal hosting the upcoming Hall of Game Awards on Cartoon Network and asking for questions to ask him while CNN interviews the former NBA All Star.
The other useful feature I find myself visiting often is the My CNN tab, which features news and weather based on the user’s location. Very helpful when trying to find local news.
The fact that CNN is making an effort to go mobile is good and once they offer live TV without a current cable subscription they’ll be ahead of the curve. Despite this factor, the new CNN App for iPhone is an excellent way to catch up on local, national an international news.