It’s been about five months since we first released our Metro/Modern app for Windows 8 and Windows RT. Today, we are so very proud to announce an updated app, which brings forth several new features.
In the first version of our app, we developed the news reader using HTML5 and Javascript. In v2 of WinBeta News Reader, we have designed and developed the app from the ground up using C# and XAML. Our new app is fast, responsive, and just plain awesome! Our app even features a Live tile that offers you the latest news right on your Start Screen. We have also added push notifications, so you are alerted immediately when a breaking story hits our site.
One feature that was requested via feedback was Snap support. We are pleased to announce that in v2 of our app, we have added Snap support. As you can see from the screenshots below, the Snap feature works as displayed. Once snapped, you will see the news title, date, and image. Once you click on that news item, the app will expand and show you that news story.
Our app also features integration with the Share charm, so you can easily share our news via email or social media. We have also added two button links at the top-right of the app to quickly take you to our Facebook and Twitter pages.
Note: Once you install the app, it will ask you if you would like the app to run in the background. Select YES so you can receive notifications for new posts.
We hope you like this app and please rate it in the Windows Store. Let us know in the comments below if you encounter any issues and please offer us feedback for version 3! Happy downloading!
The Windows Store currently showcases the first version of the app, but once you download it, you will have the first version of the app with an update available. Install that update to have v2. We are working to fix this issue.
Further reading: Windows 8, Windows RT, Windows Store
