E-paper version of ST now on Android smartphone app

Android smartphone subscribers to The Straits Times can now read an e-paper version which looks just like the print version of the English daily.

This feature has been available to ST's digital subscribers on the Web, iPhone, iPad and Android tablet platforms but was extended to Android smartphone users last week. Android tablet subscribers now get an additional perk over smartphone users: They can save a copy of the paper in PDF format to read offline later.

The latest versions of the ST Android apps have also been sporting a new look since last week.

"We had major issues previously with the design of the ST Android apps as they didn't cater to the vastly fragmented nature of the Android platform," said Mr Zuraimie Ismail, who led the redesign efforts. The app would look fine on certain mobile devices and screen sizes, but would not work on others, he said.

Besides fixing these issues, the updated apps look modern and clean, allowing stories, pictures and videos to take centre stage. ST apps provide free breaking news and push notifications to all readers. They also provide local weather and stock market updates. Subscribers get access to a seven-day archive and the paper's full print content.

This is the first major revamp of the Android apps since their debut. The tablet version was launched in July last year while the smartphone app was released in 2012. Mr Zuraimie said the apps will be updated constantly based on feedback from users. You can subscribe to The Straits Times smartphone or tablet packages for $26.65 per month.

Or get access to both versions with the All-in-One package at $28.65 per month. These packages are available on www.sphsubscription.com.sg

vinchang@sph.com.sg

This article was first published on Sep 2, 2014.
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