Army iPhone app downloaded 20,000 times

An iPhone application developed by the Army has been downloaded more than 20,000 times since its release in December 2009, and ranks in the top 25 of free news applications in the iTunes App Store, according to a report from the Army today.

Soldiers and the general public can use the U.S. Army News and Information app to receive news about the Army. Users choose which news feed to receive, including some from Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Pacific. Topics are also available on health issues, Army science and technology, the Army National Guard and the Army Reserve.

The application is available for free from via iTunes or by visiting the Army.Mil Mobile site.

The mobile application delivers stories, images and videos to iPhones, according to Army officials. It also allows soldiers and family members to save content and to share it via Facebook, Twitter and e-mail messages.

The new application provides access to both Army video and still imagery, including content hosted on the service's Flickr feed and YouTube page. Podcasts from the Soldiers Radio News show are also available through the application.

The application also serves as a digital pocket almanac and includes information about Army uniforms, military rank, Army weapons systems and the words and music for the Army's song.

Another feature aimed at potential recruits helps users find local recruiting offices.

Also available on the iPhone is a daily report titled "Stand-To!" that provides news and information for Army leaders.