London Olympics 2012: mobile App stores getting hot

14 July, 2012

As the fever of Olympics catches up across continents, mobile app stores are seeing launch of various apps that will keep you updated about the game. A look into the available applications in various stores.

THE OFFICIAL London Olympics Mobile App: There is not one but two mobile apps have been released by the organizers. If you are just looking to remain updated about the scores and points table you can download The Results app from Google Play (Android store), I-store (for Apple I-phone, i-Pad) and Blackberry store. The Results become a necessity if you are an Olympic fan in any part of the world and want to stay updated about the latest happenings, schedule, medal tally etc. this is the app for you.

The second official app is as more elaborate schedule maker called The Join In. At the moment it is available on Google Play (Android Store) and I store (for Apple I-phone, i-Pad). The Play In is more of a scheduler that also gives you information about various cultural and community celebrations happening in and around London. So even if you do not have tickets for a specific event but you are in London, download Join In to get involved with the celebration mood around.

BBC London Olympics App: BBC have launched their own London Olympics app. The app is available on Google Play store for Android phones and I store for I Phone and iPod touch. However the major limitation includes that it will require a version 2.2 or higher of Android to be downloaded. The app also requires flash support, hence many Nexus users may find the app not rendering properly on their phone. However if you want to stay updated with various news about Olympics, this is the best option available today on Play Store. BBCs app for apple devices will require an iOS 5 and above. The app allows you to customize the app by adding your favorite sport on the menu.

NBC App for Olympics: NBC has launched two applications for mobile users. Both the apps are available in Google Play and I store. However, the app is available for limited android version. The two apps are named NBC Olympics and NBC Olympics LIVE extra. The interesting part of both apps is that it will have special emphasis on video content. While NBC Olympics is mainly a news app that will include both video and text content, NBC Live extra will directly stream happenings from the tracks. Video for all events simultaneously will surely make this app a favorite one for followers of lesser known sports like badminton that are avoided by the television channels. The apps are available on app store for free however users will need a cable, satellite or telco subscription supported by the app to watch every event.

As the event nears its starting date more apps will be launched by various national and international media houses. However, at the moment the above three seem to be among the best options available.