The Weather Channel's iOS apps are a valuable edition to any device's line-up, but the paid version for iPhone was left out of a rather nice update earlier this year. Thankfully, Weather Channel Max users will finally see the UI upgrades afforded to free-version users this week.
Back in May, The Weather Channel updated its free iPhone and iPod Touch apps with an improved user interface. The background would change to accurately reflect the weather outside -- lightning across a rainy glass window, for example -- in addition to more personalized features.
Unfortunately, Weather Channel Max users weren't so lucky. Despite paying $3.99 for the ad-free version of the cable channel's weather app, the same updates included in the free version were nowhere to be found. Coming this week, those features make their way to the Max app, and all versions receive iOS 6 compatibility upgrades.
Both the free and paid versions will now offer push notifications for severe weather alerts, so it's easier to know when to make a speedy retreat from the poolside. Also, the apps take advantage of the enhanced Facebook features of iOS 6, allowing you to share current weather conditions with friends. Sharing via Twitter, email, and SMS is also available.
The Weather Channel Max app, beyond the UI updates being carried over from May, will still feature ad-free content, radar that projects the conditions for 6 hours, and more detailed forecasts like 15-minute breakdowns within the hour.
The free iPad version is iOS 6 compatible, and includes updates to "speed and performance," according to a Weather Channel representative. Unfortunately, it also sounds like there are no current plans for a paid, ad-free iPad version. But maybe we'll see one down the road.
"While there are no current plans for a paid iPad app, we are considering it for the future and continue to assess that option," said the Weather Channel rep.
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