Spectrum launches local news app

Spectrum Networks launched a local news app on July 30, the company announced.

The Spectrum News app combines reporting from existing newsrooms and weather teams, original content produced by digital journalists and curated content from partner news organizations. It also includes feeds from all Spectrum News networks, so customers can read, watch or listen from any location.

“The Spectrum News App is the first content product available to all 28 million residential Spectrum customers, adding significant value to our existing local services, but particularly our internet-only customers who could not previously access our news reporting,” said Mike Bair, executive vice president of Spectrum Networks, in a news release.

The company has also partnered with local news outlets to increase its coverage. In Orlando, that includes Florida Today, Florida Politics and WMFE-FM.

“We know that local journalism is vital to the communities we serve,” said Bair. “From political coverage of press briefings, local debates and elections, to public affairs programming and community news that is relevant to local residents, our networks serve as a valuable resource, especially during times of crisis.”

There will also be content created specifically for the app, such as “Central Florida: Beyond the Soundbite” — a new weekly political podcast that expands conversations with lawmakers and political influencers to help Central Floridians understand the issues impacting communities along the I-4 corridor. The podcast is hosted by Spectrum News 13 anchor Ybeth Bruzual, political reporter Greg Angel and producer Gary Darling.

The Spectrum News app is available on iOS and Android smartphones and tablets. It’s free for the first 30 days, but after that trial period, it will be available at no charge only to verified Spectrum residential video, internet and mobile customers.