The NewsTube iPhone app (99 cents), developed by xhuman, purports to be the best source of news videos on the iPhone. But I actually found its content and usability underwhelming.
First of all, the app must be used with the iPhone turned to the horizontal position. Second, the background is black, and the fonts and graphics are in red, not the most visible or welcoming combination.
Videos are viewable 10 at a time, but honestly, I couldn’t find a single thing that interested me. And I love my news, so that’s saying something. Options included some sort of video of Australian journalists talking about the markets Down Under, a clip of John Mayer and Eric Clapton performing together, and Ron Paul on Fox Business News.
The app does include some interactivity, which is always nice. Users can suggest a video to be added to the app, and there is a message board for real-time chatting.
In addition, another feature directed you to some themed tube channels. For example, those interested in skateboarding can check out the SkateTube app, those with an interested in science can download the ScienceTube app, and those with an appreciation of music can view the GuitarTube app.
But other than that, there is nothing particularly compelling about the NewsTube app.
