Helsingin Sanomat, Finland's leading national daily, is now available conveniently on the iPad. It is the first Finnish newspaper to publish a version specifically designed for an electronic reader. The iPad application contains the same stories and images as the printed version of Helsingin Sanomat. The iPad version becomes available for download every day at 6:00 a.m.
Apple's iPad, the best-known electronic reader, was officially introduced in Finland on 30 November 2010. Helsingin Sanomat has continuously developed its digital version, adapting it for the iPad and other electronic readers.
"The media is undergoing a transformation, which we see as a positive challenge. Electronic readers offer us an opportunity to serve a specific section of our readership. Helsingin Sanomat invests strongly in the multi-channel approach, with the printed version serving as a solid foundation," says Mikael Pentikäinen, Publisher and Senior Editor-in-Chief.
The iPad version of the newspaper has the same content as the HTML version, and both become available every day at 6:00 a.m. The layout of the new version supports easy use and fast downloads on electronic touch-screen readers.
"With an electronic reader, Helsingin Sanomat is effortlessly and conveniently available anywhere: at a summer cottage or on the move. The 3G connection enables speedy downloads," says Pentikäinen.
Next version already in progress
A new iPad version of Helsingin Sanomat is already under development and will incorporate feedback received from users. The goal is to publish special content, such as images and videos, that will not be included in the printed version.
"The iPad application is being further developed to serve readers' needs even better. We collect feedback on Facebook and the HS Next development blog, among other channels. Based on feedback from users of the test version, we intend to include cartoons and weather reports in the next iPad version," says Pentikäinen.
In the near future, the digital version of Helsingin Sanomat will also become available on other tablet devices. The printed version, the browser-based version and the HS.fi online service are also under constant development as integral parts of the multi-channel approach.
New opportunities attract advertisers
The iPad version offers new opportunities for advertisers, combining the best qualities of print and online advertising: visuality and interactivity. The user-friendly videos and animations will not play unless prompted by the reader.
"Electronic readers offer advertisers an opportunity to combine reading experiences with interactive advertising in a new way. We are developing different advertisement formats in collaboration with our advertisers," says Pentikäinen.
With their user IDs, subscribers of Helsingin Sanomat can read the iPad version without an additional fee. For non-subscribers, a single copy costs EUR 1.59 and a 30-day subscription costs EUR 15.99 at the App Store. The application can be downloaded from the App Store free of charge.
More information:
Mikael Pentikäinen, Publisher and Senior Editor-in-Chief, Helsingin Sanomat, tel. +358 9 122 2310
Petteri Putkiranta, Development Manager, Helsingin Sanomat, tel. +358 40 550 1551
www.facebook.com/HSfiDev
www.HS.fi/blogit/hsnext
Editorial offices:
The iPad version of Helsingin Sanomat is available free of charge for a period of two weeks for each electronic reader in editorial offices. The offer is made available by Sonera but is not limited to Sonera's customers. The offer is valid until 31 December 2010.