
NewsON Launches Enhanced Roku App with New Features and Content | Image Source: sbgi.net
ROCHESTER, N.Y., June 16, 2024 — NewsON, the nation’s leading streaming service for local news content, has announced the launch of its upgraded app on Roku, marking a significant enhancement in user experience and content accessibility. According to NewsON’s official website, the newly revamped app introduces a range of features and a refreshed user interface designed to provide viewers with seamless access to live and on-demand news coverage across the United States.
The latest version of the NewsON app offers ad-supported streaming of local news content from more than 285 trusted TV stations across 135 markets, effectively reaching over 90% of the U.S. population. This extensive coverage ensures that users can stay informed about important events both locally and nationwide. Additionally, the app provides access to several local stations that have FAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV) channels, offering further flexibility for streaming live and curated content.
New Features Enrich Viewer Experience
One of the standout upgrades to the NewsON app is the addition of interactive and immersive weather features. Users can now utilize a “zoomable” national radar map, complete with layers for winds, precipitation, and icy conditions. Localized weather details, including current conditions and 7-day forecasts, are available for each market within the app. Moreover, a curated collection of weather videos delivers up-to-date coverage from across the country, ensuring viewers have access to critical weather updates at their fingertips.
The redesigned app also introduces the Trending Stations Map, a feature aimed at helping users quickly navigate breaking news stories from various regions. This interactive map ensures immediate access to the most relevant and timely coverage, both within their local markets and from out-of-market sources. As per NewsON’s statement, this tool is designed to make it easier for viewers to keep up with developing stories nationwide.
Introducing What’sON: NewsON’s Original Daily Segment
A major highlight of the app’s update is the introduction of “What’sON,” an original series that features trending and unique news stories beyond the headlines. Each day, viewers can expect engaging content such as “True Crime Tuesday” and “Strange but True Thursday,” presented in an interactive format. Users are encouraged to interact with hosts and share their thoughts through comments on mobile devices, fostering a sense of community and viewer participation. This feature reflects NewsON’s focus on delivering unique and engaging programming while enhancing viewer interaction.
In addition to What’sON, NewsON is expanding its mobile-centric offerings. According to the platform, its iOS and Android apps now emphasize short-form content, user commenting, and polls, as well as push notifications to keep users updated. These features are tailored to meet the growing demand for mobile-friendly, interactive content that resonates with audiences on the go.
Enhanced Accessibility Across Platforms
NewsON’s upgraded app solidifies its position as one of the top-performing apps in the News & Weather category on Roku, as indicated by Roku’s channel store rankings. Ron Stitt, Vice President and General Manager of NewsON, highlighted the importance of this release, stating:
“The release of our updated app on Roku is a significant milestone for NewsON. We are very focused on building on our core service of nationwide local TV news access with unique features like VOD newscasts, while enhancing multiplatform engagement and interactivity with a host of new content and features including interactive weather radar, user commenting and polls.”
The NewsON app remains free to download and does not require user login, making it accessible to a broad audience. In addition to Roku devices, the app is available on Amazon Fire TV, Samsung, Android TV, VIZIO, iOS, and Android devices. According to NewsON, an app for LG smart TVs is currently in development, further expanding its multiplatform reach.
NewsON and Its Impact on Local News Delivery
NewsON, owned by Sinclair, Inc., continues to be the largest aggregator of local news content in the United States. By partnering with 285+ TV stations from 135 markets, NewsON offers comprehensive coverage that serves over 90% of the U.S. population. This widespread availability underscores the platform’s commitment to providing viewers with credible and trusted local news content.
Sinclair, the parent company of NewsON, is a leading diversified media organization with ownership and operational services for 185 television stations in 86 markets. According to Sinclair’s website, the company’s portfolio includes major networks such as Tennis Channel and multicast networks like Comet, CHARGE!, TBD, and The Nest. NewsON plays a key role in Sinclair’s strategy to deliver high-quality local content across multiple platforms, aligning with the growing demand for digital news streaming services.
NewsON’s success is attributed to its ability to combine live broadcasts, on-demand clips, and interactive features into a single platform. This approach ensures that viewers have access to critical local news, weather updates, and trending stories in a convenient and engaging manner. By prioritizing both content quality and user experience, NewsON continues to lead the way in the streaming news industry.
In line with its commitment to innovation, NewsON’s enhanced app on Roku represents a significant step forward for the platform. The integration of interactive weather tools, original series, and expanded mobile features demonstrates NewsON’s focus on meeting the evolving needs of today’s viewers while maintaining its core mission of delivering trusted local news content.
As streaming services continue to reshape the media landscape, NewsON’s latest updates reaffirm its position as a key player in the News & Weather category. With its expansive network of trusted stations and cutting-edge features, NewsON is well-positioned to provide viewers with unparalleled access to the news they need, whenever and wherever they need it.