Babelgum launched its video Web site a few years ago, so the company has had time to build a large database of videos based on partnerships and deals it has been able to broker. So Babelgum’s iPhone app comes fully loaded with access to this large database of clips, television episodes and films.
What I appreciate most about Babelgum’s iPhone application is its conceptual similarity to its Web site, meaning the user interface is very clean and directive in its layout. You instantly understand that you can view video highlights, most viewed, channels, or your favorites.
The Babelgum iPhone app, available for free in Apple’s iTunes Store, essentially acts as a search tool that is specific to mobile users. Filter-through content based on publishers and character roles.
Social-sharing capabilities let you post videos to profiles on various social networking sites, such as Facebook and MySpace. There is also the option connecting more directly with friends regarding Babelgum by inviting them to view a video with you.
One fun, iPhone-specific feature is the shuffle function, which takes place by shaking your phone when you are ready to view a randomly selected clip within a given category.
Video-streaming apps can be tricky for mobile users depending on the type of network they are using for connection purposes. Some additional off-line capabilities would be nice for Babelgum’s iPhone application, especially given some of the iPhone’s other great media-centric features.
Babelgum released an updated version for iPhone 3.0 users, which has improved the overall experience.
