CNN on Tuesday announced an iPhone app, one that will actually charge users to get news from CNN. However, CNN is smart enough to realize that the best model for iPhone apps is a small fee upfront, so they're charging just a one-time $1.99 fee.
The software also monetizes itself with logo placement and banners for advertisers.
You won't be able to access CNN programming, although you can get streaming video. Here's how CNN describes the app:
NOW you can get live streaming video of breaking news, the most important headlines of the day with location-based news, weather and traffic from the palm of your hands. With the NEW CNN App for the iPhone and iPod Touch, you can also iReport directly from your phone using the phone's advanced photo and video capabilities.
Read
- Breaking news, top stories, US, world, politics, health, entertainment news and more
- Snack-sized highlights or full stories
- Local news, weather and traffic
- Sharing via e-mail, SMS, Twitter and Facebook
Watch
- Live breaking news video
- Top video from all categories, most popular and the best of CNN TV
- Optimized for your connection
CNN iReport
- Contribute to CNN’s coverage on stories that are important to you
- View, record and submit video and photo iReports directly from your phone
Save
- Save stories and videos to view around your busy lifestyle
- Catch up on the news even when you can’t be online
- Freedom to stay informed whenever and wherever you want
Follow
- Follow topics that most interest you
- Be alerted when story updates are published
- Easily stay connected as stories develop
The personalization and ability to save, follow, and watch video (even if I can't watch "Larry King Live") has the potential to make this app a game-changer, even if it does cost money.
At the same time, CNN will be getting content from end users as well: the app allows iReporters to record and submit photo and video iReports directly from their iPhone, as well as get local assignments. Can you imagine how many more iReports will be generated by this app? That alone means CNN will not just be getting revenue and exposure, but could also receive real-time breaking news. Can you imagine how coverage of say, last year's November terrorist events in India, could have unfolded?
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