CNN to Get into the Weather Game

CNN is set to launch its own dedicated weather application, "CNN Weather," by the end of 2025, Axios has learned. This move places the news giant in direct competition with Fox Weather, which has already established a presence in providing weather information to consumers.

The development of the CNN Weather app is part of a larger strategy under CEO Mark Thompson to bolster the network's digital offerings through investments in lifestyle and subscription-based news products. This initiative also includes the planned launch of a new cross-platform streaming service later this year.

According to Alex MacCallum, CNN's EVP of digital products and services, the "CNN Weather" app will be a "mobile-first" experience, leveraging the expertise of CNN's existing meteorology and climate teams. Speaking to employees at a town hall on Tuesday, MacCallum stated that the app will deliver localized weather forecasts and provide round-the-clock coverage of significant weather events on both a regional and national scale.

Sources indicate that Thompson is expected to formally announce the new app at CNN's advertising presentation in New York today.

Initially, the "CNN Weather" app will be available to users at no cost, with plans to eventually transition it to a paid subscription model.

In a statement confirming the launch, MacCallum explained the rationale behind the move: "As we build out a subscription portfolio and offering for our users, we are looking to launch a series of lifestyle-oriented products that become essential to people's everyday lives. Weather is a natural fit for our audience and for the CNN portfolio."

This foray into the weather app market signals CNN's ambition to expand its digital footprint and tap into new revenue streams by offering specialized content that caters to the daily needs of its audience, a strategy already being pursued by competitors like Fox Weather.