There has been considerable buzz about a potential virtual NewsStand for the iPad, though it hadn’t materialized until recently. The French market has now introduced an innovative app that consolidates a variety of magazines into a single iPad application, featuring a 3D display interface.
The app, named Le Kiosque, is available for free and allows users to purchase magazines directly through the app.
The app’s description on the iOS App Store, translated via Google, mentions that it hosts over 400 magazines, offering them at discounts of up to 70% compared to their print counterparts.
After making a purchase, users can immediately start reading the magazine through a streaming service, eliminating the need for downloads. The app also supports offline reading and provides access to past issues.
In a discussion with FRECHWEB.FR, Michael Philippe, the marketing head at Le Kiosque, revealed that the app’s approval followed two months of discussions with Apple, which initially rejected the idea of a subscription model.
This scenario echoes a familiar refrain in the digital publishing space, as seen in previous disagreements between Apple and other publishers, highlighted in the article Where’ve we heard that before.
Although primarily in French, Le Kiosque is also accessible in the US and UK App Stores, featuring some content in English. For a closer look, a video demonstration is available below.
[Sources: 9 to 5 Mac, FRENCHWEB.FR]
David Chartier is a dedicated writer for TUAW, bringing readers the latest updates and insights on all things Apple. With a keen eye for detail, David covers everything from the newest iPhone releases to the latest macOS updates. His articles are a go-to source for Apple enthusiasts looking to stay informed about their favorite products, including the iPad, Apple Watch, and MacBook. David’s commitment to delivering accurate and engaging content makes him a valued member of the TUAW team.
