ABC News launches Xbox One app just in time for the Oscars

ABC News has become the first US mainstream news outlet to launch an app for the Xbox One console. The app is being released just a few days before the 87th Academy Awards on Sunday, Feb. 22, and it will offer Xbox One owners "extensive coverage, including interviews with nominees and segments on Oscars fashion, trends and history."

Here's a quick look at the app's features:

  • 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.

Source: ABC News

John Callaham