The phrase identifies superior software applications available on Apple’s mobile operating system that deliver current events and information. These applications aggregate, curate, or provide original reporting for consumption on iPhones and iPads. An example is an application offering personalized news feeds from various sources, tailored to user preferences.
Such applications are important because they facilitate access to information, contributing to a more informed citizenry. They provide a convenient, portable, and often customizable way to stay abreast of local, national, and international happenings. Historically, users relied on printed newspapers or scheduled broadcast news for updates; now, these applications offer real-time, on-demand information.