Microsoft has introduced a new MSN News beta for Android (opens in new tab) and iOS (opens in new tab), bringing along a complete revamp of the app with a new look and experience on both platforms. On top of the new look, Microsoft has tucked in a number of other tweaks that make the app feel more modern.
Though it's in beta, the revamp looks fairly polished from the outset. After going through an initial setup process, during which you choose topics that interest you, the app will default to a "My News" section that acts as an aggregator for the top headlines from topics you like. From there, you can use a pivot menu to swipe between topics, such as "Top Stories," "World," "Politics," and more. Across the bottom of the app, you'll find navigation options that let you quickly tab between your settings, interests, and more. There's even a dark theme toggle if that's your thing.
Here's a full look at what's new in this beta, according to Microsoft:
- A first-run experience helps get you set up quickly
- The look and feel is updated and tailored to Android
- Personalize the app by choosing from hundreds of topics to follow
- You can roam your interests across all your devices
- A widget gives you easy access to MSN News
- A dark theme makes it easier to read at night
- Local news is available for many cities
- You can scroll continuously from one article to the next
The new MSN News beta app is available for anyone to check out on Android by signing up to be a tester (opens in new tab) on Google Play. If you're using an iPhone, space through Apple's TestFlight program is fairly limited, so you'll have to sign up and wait for an invite.
Dan Thorp-Lancaster is the Editor in Chief for Windows Central. He began working with Windows Central as a news writer in 2014 and is obsessed with tech of all sorts. You can follow Dan on Twitter @DthorpL and Instagram @heyitsdtl. Got a hot tip? Send it to daniel.thorp-lancaster@futurenet.com.
