The sometimes-controversial Arabic-language news network Al Jazeera, has launched an English language application for iPhone and iPod touch.
The application offers a live feed of the English language version of the station in partnership with Livestation. Two “Watch now” feeds are available depending on your connection, standard quality on 3G, a higher quality version when connected by Wi-Fi.
Director of global distribution for Al Jazeera, Phil Lawrie believes the move demonstrates Al Jazeera's enthusiasm for embracing new technology. “Deployments such as this, on emerging technologies, are all about garnering real estate and making sure a fragmenting audience can still find us on whatever device they are using.”
Over recent years Al Jazeera has grown from a single Arabic language channel to a global presence with a range of services available via satellite, cable and Internet. Al Jazeera has also been the first to broadcast video statements by Osama bin Laden and other al-Qaeda leaders, which has drawn criticism especially from the US.
Available from the Apple iTunes App Store, Al Jazeera for iPhone and iPod touch is available for a limited time, six months, for £1.79 (US$2.92) and requires the iPhone 2.2 Software Update or later.
iPhone 3GS users are asked to wait until the makers fix a incompatibility bug before downloading the application. A fix is promised in the next couple of days says Al Jazeera.
