PBS Launches Free Video App for iPhone & iPod Touch, 'Antiques Roadshow' Game App

PBS announced today the App Store debut of the PBS App for iPhone and iPod touch, featuring more than 300 hours of free video, including full-length programs.

Also launching today, the PBS Antiques Roadshow game app, available for the iPad, iPhone and iPod touch, lets players virtually collect, appraise and bid on real antiques with new collectibles from different cities added regularly.

"With a huge library from nearly 360 member stations and 1500 public media producers, PBS is delivering a rich on-demand experience and is now one of the first broadcasters to bring full-length video to the iPhone," said Jason Seiken, SVP, PBS Interactive, Product Development and Innovation. "There has been increasing demand for our content on other platforms - the PBS video player averages 22 minutes viewing time per program among audiences 18+ and ranks 19th among video sites, with more than 104 million streams. In addition, PBSKIDS.org is the #1 children's video site in streams and unique users, according to comScore."

The PBS App for the iPhone and iPod touch features more than 300 hours of free video, including full-length programming from FRONTLINE, PBS Newshour, and others, as well as scheduling details, previews, and a new tune-in reminder calendar that can be synced with iCal. This app was developed by PBS and Bottle Rocket Apps and comes on the heels of the already successful PBS App for iPad.

Based on the popular television series, the Antiques Roadshow App brings out the expert collector and appraiser in every Roadshow fan. Dozens of unique game challenges let players collect and store hundreds of virtual antiques based on images of real objects and actual values. Players appraise and learn about each item's history and value. Expert players can unlock a free play mode and scoop up extra rare items for their treasure chest.

"Antiques Roadshow remains a huge hit on-air, and local events draw large crowds. The series is part adventure, part history and part treasure hunt, and now the app takes it to another level, allowing players to become antiques dealers-in-training," said Marsha Bemko, Executive Producer, Antiques Roadshow. "No more waiting in line to get in. We've granted VIP access passes to everyone to indulge their inner appraiser."