ABC News announced today the launch of its app for Xbox One. Debuting as the first U.S. news application on the gaming console, the ABC News app will offer immediate access to multiple simultaneous streams of live video as well as on-demand content, entertainment news, original programming and highlights from ABC News programs.
During Oscars weekend, the app will feature clips and live video from ABC News’ extensive coverage, including interviews with nominees and segments on Oscars fashion, trends and history.
“The app for Xbox One is a major step forward in our efforts to develop new creative forms of storytelling and put ABC News everywhere people get their news and information” said ABC News VP of Digital Colby Smith. ”The ability to choose from multiple live streams, especially during breaking news and special events, will provide an unparalleled viewing experience for the audience.”
Features include:
- User is in Control: With the Snap feature users can split the screen to view ABC News live streams or top stories coverage on one side while simultaneously playing a game, watching live television, or video chatting on Skype on the other side. Users can access up to five simultaneous live streams, including ABC News’ 24/7 digital channel. In addition, the app “squeezes back” between clips, inviting users to change course by rearranging the playlists, saving clips for later or jumping into another section.
- Added Content: Partnerships with Marvel and Fusion bring behind-the-scenes footage and interviews from ABC-Disney partners. ABC will also premier a recurring digital news update series that will expand the use of modern digital storytelling for the Xbox audience. In addition to its extensive national and international coverage, the app includes clips from ABC Owned Television affiliates including WABC in New York, KABC in Los Angeles, WLS in Chicago, WPVI in Philadelphia, KGO in San Francisco, KTRK in Houston, WTVD in Raleigh and KFSN in Fresno.
- Morning, Evening & Weekend Editions: A curated playlist of videos begins playing as soon as the app starts with a continuous playback. Editors update content regularly throughout the day, delivering quick digests in the morning, more immersive content in the evenings and topic-themed packages to catch up on the weekends. Each edition can be adjusted for advertising sponsorships or major news events.
ABC News Digital continues to lead the charge in live video and revolutionize the way in which users watch and participate in news. Digital properties include ABCNews.com and GoodMorningAmerica.com on Yahoo!, along with ABC News on Apple TV and ABC News’ Android, iPhone and iPad apps, offering a dynamic, around-the-clock look at news as it breaks. It’s the online destination for newsmaker access, investigative coverage, and exclusive footage from every big story.