Journal rolling out app updates
Tweaking continues to improve newspaper replica on tablets, smartphones
TO OUR READERS —
Over the past few weeks, the Journal has been rolling out a new, consolidated version of our eJournal and breaking news apps.
Now, after a few updates to address usability differences sought by our readers, we have a friendlier and stronger application. But we’re not done. The rollout of updates will continue as we refine the reading experience based on input from you, the community.
Many of you have asked why we made the changes.
There were several reasons:
■ The Journal was maintaining two versions of our apps, and that confused some readers who wanted either the digital newspaper or a feed of the latest news of the day. The new app allows the two to be combined in a handy format.
■ The new app gives us a better opportunity to update stories throughout the day.
■ The new app will let us serve you better in the future by personalizing your experience.
In the latest app updates, based on your suggestions, our developers have:
■ Adjusted the page size and font size to match the old app.
■ Streamlined page-to-page movement – you can now swipe to the next page without having to return to the full page size.
■ Improved it so it takes up less storage on your device.
We have several other changes on the way that should:
■ Download the newspaper earlier and take less time to do so.
■ Allow you to more easily clip a story or puzzle for printing.
■ Provide breaking news notifications. “We are close to getting what we wanted and what our users are demanding,” said Greg Bright, director of digital strategy and data analytics. “The versions expected in the next couple of weeks will complete the improvements to the app.”
For those using Android devices, the improved app will roll out sometime later this month.
We have heard from many of you and appreciate your feedback.
If you have questions or concerns, please contact our customer service department at 505-823-4400 or email to Journal@ abqjournal.com. If customer service can’t answer your question, a representative will have someone call you back.
— Donn Friedman, Assistant Managing Editor for production, technology and new media innovations