Detailed Review
The KHON2 News mobile application, developed by LIN Television Corporation, provides Honolulu and broader Hawaiian residents with localized news coverage directly on iOS devices. Positioned as Hawaii's primary mobile news source, the app translates the station's broadcast journalism into digital format while maintaining its 'Working for Hawaii' editorial stance. This approach delivers comprehensive regional coverage from volcanic activity updates to legislative developments specific to the islands.
The application's core functionality centers around video content from field reporters, text articles mirroring broadcast stories, and real-time breaking news notifications. Users can access weather forecasts specifically tailored to Hawaiian microclimates, from Hilo's rainfall patterns to Kauai's coastal conditions. Sports coverage emphasizes local teams and events, while the live streaming capability enables immediate access to developing situations such as tropical storms or volcanic eruptions. The interface organizes content by categories including news, weather, sports, and video, with push notifications alerting users to urgent developments.
User experience varies by device according to feedback, with the interface presenting a clean hierarchy of content sections. Navigation follows standard news app conventions with a bottom tab bar for primary categories and a top section for featured stories. Real-world usage patterns show highest engagement during weather events and breaking news situations, where the app's streaming capabilities provide particular value. The notification system allows users to customize alerts by topic importance, though some users report technical inconsistencies across Apple devices.
User feedback trends overwhelmingly positive, with an average 4.63-star rating reflecting appreciation for localized coverage. Reviewer 'Aunty Nani' (August 19, 2020) repeatedly expressed gratitude for the service to Hawaiian residents, while 'Upcountry gal' (October 8, 2020) noted relying on the app for regular updates. However, 'my girlfriend's teddy bear' (September 22, 2020) reported persistent glitches specifically on iPhone devices when accessing notifications, noting the iPad version functioned without issues—suggesting potential optimization variances within Apple's ecosystem.
The application excels in delivering specialized regional content unavailable through national news platforms, with particular strength in weather coverage and emergency notifications. Limitations include reported technical inconsistencies across devices and a content scope deliberately limited to Hawaiian coverage. The app serves ideal use cases for residents requiring localized information, travelers monitoring island conditions, and diaspora communities maintaining connections to Hawaiian current events. Its value proposition remains strongest for users prioritizing hyperlocal Hawaiian news over broader national or international coverage.
Perfect for: Hawaiian residents and travelers seeking localized news and weather updates