MS NOW (formerly MSNBC)
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Analysis by LookedApp · Published · Updated
The MS NOW app, formerly MSNBC, provides users with a curated newsfeed, unlimited articles, and live streaming of news programs. It aims to keep individuals informed on current events and offers deeper engagement through an optional membership. This application is suitable for users in the U.S. seeking comprehensive news coverage and analysis from MS NOW journalists.
What is MS NOW (formerly MSNBC)?
The MS NOW app, titled MS NOW: Live & Breaking News, offers a platform for news consumption, including live broadcasts, articles, and expert analysis. The network was previously known as MSNBC, and the app reflects this evolution in its branding.
The application is developed and published by Versant Media, LLC. It serves as a central hub for users to access news content and engage with various features related to current events and public discourse.
Users can access the MS NOW app across multiple mobile platforms. It is available for download on both the Google Play Store for Android devices and the App Store for iOS devices.
Latest on MS NOW (formerly MSNBC)
Is this the real MS NOW (formerly MSNBC) app?
- Listed on Google Play & App StoreStore listings on both Google Play and the App Store.
| Developer on Google Play | Versant Media, LLC |
|---|---|
| Developer on the App Store | Versant Media LLC |
| Same developer on both stores | Yes |
| Android package name | com.nbcnews.msnbc.mobile |
| iOS bundle ID | com.msnbc.rachelmaddow.ipad |
| On the stores since | Jan 11, 2011 |
| Installs on Google Play | 100,000+ |
| Content rating | Google Play: Teen / App Store: 12+ |
These details come from the public store listings. LookedApp doesn't host downloads: install from the Google Play or App Store buttons on this page.
Key features
- A curated newsfeed presents the day’s most important headlines and videos in one location.
- All MS NOW articles are accessible without limits exclusively within the app.
- Users can read trusted reporting, analysis, and opinions provided by MS NOW journalists and experts.
- Breaking news alerts can be received, and notifications about preferred topics can be set.
- MS NOW TV shows, such as Morning Joe and The Rachel Maddow Show, can be streamed live 24/7.
- Meditations powered by Calm are available within the app for a moment of reset.
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Privacy and permissions
On Google Play, the MS NOW app requests specific permissions, including access to Location and Wi-Fi connection information. These permissions allow the app to gather certain data from the user's device.
The App Store listing indicates the app incorporates Nielsen proprietary measurement software, which contributes to market research such as Nielsen’s TV Ratings. Further details regarding privacy practices are available through provided links to the privacy policy at https://versantprivacy.com/privacy, Your Privacy Choices at https://www.versantprivacy.com/privacy#accordionheader6, and a CA Notice at https://www.versantprivacy.com/privacy/california-consumer-privacy-act.
Versant Media LLC publishes its privacy policy at www.versantprivacy.com.
MS NOW (formerly MSNBC) permissions in plain English
The Google Play listing shows 2 permission groups. Google Play also lists 6 other permissions, such as “view network connections”. That is fewer than most streaming, tv & news apps LookedApp reviews (typical: 5).
- LocationCan use your approximate location
- Wi-Fi connection informationCan see Wi-Fi connection details
The App Store privacy label lists these data types:
- Used to track you: Identifiers, Usage Data
- Linked to you: Location, Contact Info, Identifiers, Usage Data, Diagnostics
- Not linked to you: User Content
Permission names come from Google Play; the plain-English lines describe what each permission group allows, not how this app uses it.
MS NOW (formerly MSNBC) at a glance
| Developer | Versant Media LLC |
|---|---|
| Category | News |
| Rating on App Store | 4.3 out of 5 (36K ratings) |
| Rating on Google Play | 3.6 out of 5 (10K ratings) |
| Installs on Google Play | 100K+ |
| Price | Free |
| Age rating | 12+ |
What changed in the latest MS NOW (formerly MSNBC) version
Google Play · Listing updated Oct 1, 2026
The release notes are general and don't list specific changes:
“General bug fixes and performance updates. We value your feedback. Please reach out to support@msnow.zendesk.com with any questions, comments, or concerns.”
Quoted from the store listings' release notes.
Pricing
The MS NOW app is listed as 0 on Google Play and "Free" on the App Store, meaning there is no upfront cost to download the application itself. However, the app does include in-app purchases.
An MS NOW Membership is available, which requires a subscription to access its full benefits and features, such as ad-free content, live Q&As, and member-exclusive series. A 50% off Member annual offer concludes on 9/30/2026, 11:59pm ET, and subsequent renewals will occur at the full price after the initial year.
MS NOW (formerly MSNBC) compared with similar apps
| App | Rating | Installs | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 MS NOW (formerly MSNBC) | 4.3 | 100K+ | Free |
 YouTube | 3.8 | 10B+ | Free |
 Tubi | 4.9 | 100M+ | Free |
 YouTube Music | 4.5 | 5B+ | Free |
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How to get MS NOW (formerly MSNBC) safely
To ensure a safe installation of the MS NOW app, individuals should only download it from reputable sources like the Google Play Store or the App Store. It is crucial to confirm that the developer listed for the app is Versant Media, LLC, to verify its authenticity.
Users are advised to avoid downloading the app from third-party websites or unofficial mirrors, as these sources may offer modified or potentially harmful versions. Before proceeding with installation, reviewing the requested permissions, such as Location and Wi-Fi connection information on Google Play, is a recommended step to understand the access the app will have on a device.
How to install MS NOW (formerly MSNBC)
On Android (Google Play)
- Open the Google Play Store app on your Android phone or tablet.
- Search for MS NOW (formerly MSNBC), or use the Google Play button on this page to open the listing directly.
- Check that the developer under the app name is Versant Media, LLC.
- Tap Install (or the price, for a paid app) and wait for the download to finish, then open the app from your home screen.
- The listing shows in-app purchases, so review any purchase prompts before you confirm.
On iPhone and iPad (App Store)
- Open the App Store on your iPhone or iPad.
- Search for MS NOW (formerly MSNBC), or use the App Store button on this page to open the listing directly.
- Check that the developer under the app name is Versant Media LLC.
- Make sure your device has iOS 17.6 or later and about 195 MB of free space, as the listing states.
- Tap Get (or the price), confirm the download, then open the app from your home screen.
- The listing shows in-app purchases, so review any purchase prompts before you confirm.
MS NOW (formerly MSNBC) version and app details
| Google Play | App Store | |
|---|---|---|
| Latest version | – | 14.4.0 |
| Last updated | Oct 1, 2026 | Oct 1, 2026 |
| First released | Mar 19, 2024 | Jan 11, 2011 |
| Package name | com.nbcnews.msnbc.mobile | – |
| Bundle ID | – | com.msnbc.rachelmaddow.ipad |
| Requires | – | iOS 17.6 or later |
| Download size | – | 195 MB |
| Content rating | Teen (Diverse Content: Discretion Advised) | 12+ (Infrequent/Mild Alcohol, Tobacco, or Drug Use or References; Infrequent/Mild Realistic Violence) |
| In-app purchases | Yes ($7.99 - $189.00 per item) | Yes |
| Contains ads | Yes | – |
| Languages | – | 1 (including English) |
| Developer | Versant Media, LLC | Versant Media LLC |
Who MS NOW (formerly MSNBC) is for
The MS NOW app is intended for users residing in the U.S. who are interested in staying current with news, analysis, and opinions from MS NOW journalists. It caters to individuals seeking a curated news experience, comprehensive articles, and the ability to stream live news programs.
Additionally, the app is suitable for those who desire a deeper level of engagement through its membership offerings, which include exclusive interactions with journalists, specialized content, and community discussions. The content rating of "Teen" on Google Play and "12+" on the App Store indicates it is designed for a general audience, excluding young children.
MS NOW (formerly MSNBC) for kids and families
Pros
- Provides a curated newsfeed with important headlines and videos.
- Offers unlimited access to MS NOW articles exclusively within the app.
- Includes trusted reporting, analysis, and opinions from journalists.
- Allows live streaming of MS NOW TV shows 24/7.
- Membership offers exclusive connections to journalists, live Q&As, and community discussions.
Cons
- An MS NOW account is required for app usage, even for basic access.
- Full benefits and ad-free viewing are contingent upon a paid MS NOW Membership.
- The app is available only in the U.S.
- In-app purchases are present, indicating potential additional costs beyond the initial download.
MS NOW (formerly MSNBC): frequently asked questions
Is the MS NOW app free to use?
The MS NOW app is listed as 0 on Google Play and "Free" on the App Store for download. However, it contains in-app purchases, and an MS NOW Membership is required to access all features and content.
On which devices can the MS NOW app be used?
The app is available on Google Play, where its version varies with the device, and on the App Store, which requires iOS 17.6 or later.
Who developed the MS NOW app?
The MS NOW app was developed by Versant Media, LLC.
Is an account necessary to use the MS NOW app?
Yes, an MS NOW account is required to use the app, and creating this account is free.
What is the content rating for the MS NOW app?
The content rating for the app is "Teen" on Google Play and "12+" on the App Store.
Does the MS NOW app provide live news broadcasts?
Yes, users have the ability to stream MS NOW Live 24/7, which includes various MS NOW TV shows, and can also access replays on their schedule.
MS NOW (formerly MSNBC)
- Category
- News
- Version
- 14.4.0
Download
MS NOW (formerly MSNBC) ratings breakdown
Google Play 3.6 average from 10,329 ratings
- 556%
- 49%
- 34%
- 25%
- 127%
App Store 4.3 average from 35,839 ratings
- 571%
- 412%
- 34%
- 23%
- 110%
Share of ratings for each star level, as shown on the listings, as of Oct 7, 2026.
