NewsON launched an app that will bring local news nationwide. Since more customers are now reportedly dropping the traditional cable TV subscription in favor of streaming services, this offer came just in time.
If you find the NewsON app interesting, here are the five facts you need to know about it.
1. NewsOn App Availability
It works with iOS, Android and Roku. According to Tech Crunch, the app is now available on iTunes, Google Play and Roku Channel Store for download.
Its closest competitor is Watchup, which reportedly claimed a partnership with nine local broadcasters, summing up to 150 local media outlets in 100 markets. It could additionally stream national and global news from 100 more sources.
2. NewsOn App Content
The service claims that it offers coverage for local news across 75 percent of the United States and includes video content from 118 stations in 90 markets.
The contents of the app are from ABC Owned Television Station Group, Cox Media Group, Hearst Television, Media General and Raycom Media. Hubbard Broadcasting Graham Media Group and TEGNA are also included, USA Today reported.
The video clips and broadcasts can be reportedly found with the use of the interactive map. It can be also searched via network affiliation, by state or call letters. There is also a timeline, where you can scroll through the broadcasts for specific segments.
Other than live news, users can also watch previous broadcast of up to 48 hours for most stations.
3. The NewsON Strategy
Aggregating the local broadcast under content under one umbrella brand is the strategy with NewsOn, Variety reported.
"NewsON expands the reach and relevance of local broadcast news, and delivers a uniquely valuable experience for viewers," NewsOn CEO Louis Gump, who previously led the mobile app development at CNN and Weather Channel, said during the announcement.
4. The NewsOn App Interactive
The app reportedly has an added interactive element. One of the app's features allows the users to view and post real-time messages about a specific news coverage.
5. NewsOn App Is Free
It may be free for consumers, but NewsOn is planning to generate income via a dual revenue model. Gump explained that the said model was both from consumer-facing advertising and monthly fees from the affiliated TV stations.
"For purposes of consumer use, the NewsON app is free and ad-supported, and the bulk of revenue will be generated," Gump added.
Some analysts are expecting minor flaws on NewsON. However, the bottom line is, there is now a way to catch news on iOS and Android powered smartphones and tablets.
NewsON did not disclose how much funding it received.