Long discussed, the comiXology phone and tablet app for kids comics is available today. Such popular characters as Archie, Sonic the Hedgehog, Secret of Kells, Atomic Robo and dozens more kid-friendly, parent-approved characters will be available. Complete PR is below, but the main idea is that if you are a parent — or know of one — you know that iPhones and iPads are increasingly being used as babysitters for small children, and kids book apps top the iPhone charts. As the app is non log-in based, everything on it is preapproved; it’s not hard to see how this is going to make buying digital comics for children in the classic “reward” method much easier.
The app has launched with 15 publishers and 175 comics; notably absent are Marvel, DC, Dark Horse, and IDW, but hopefully they’ll be coming on board in some way.
comiXology, the leading distributor of digital comics, announced today the availability of their Comics4Kids app for the iOS. Specifically designed for young readers, Comics4Kids features titles from acclaimed publishers including Archie Comics, Image Comics and GKids (publishers of Secret of Kells) in addition to dozens of other classic comic titles.
The comiXology Comics4Kids app offers a creative outlet for kids to develop critical reading skills while challenging their imaginations. Established to provide parents with a trusted and kid-friendly application for digital comics, Comics4Kids will offer a distinctive set of classic and modern titles including Archie, Sonic the Hedgehog, Secret of Kells and Atomic Robo.
“Comics were a staple of my life growing up. I lived and breathed Archie as a kid, so I know how big of a role these books can play in children’s development. Now, as an adult, I’m doing everything I can to ensure that today’s generation of tech-oriented kids has the same opportunity through comiXology,” said Jon Goldwater, CEO of Archie Comics.
Comics4Kids is one of the largest digital libraries of kid’s comics available on mobile devices, marking comiXology’s newest pursuit in engaging resources for child development.
“Comics4Kids is specifically designed for a new generation of tech-savvy kids and teens,” said David Steinberger, CEO of comiXology. “We have parents writing us all the time that they love our apps, and want to share comics with their kids, but they’re afraid they’ll pick up one of our mature titles. I couldn’t even hand my iPad off to my own young niece so I knew we needed to make an app for the kids who want to explore comics in an environment that makes their parents comfortable.”
Available for free download in the iTunes store, the app will enable kids to explore a new realm of possibilities in reading with the availability of nearly 175 comics from 15 publishers.
Publishers on board:
• Alterna Comics
• Antarctic Press
• Arcana Comics
• Bluewater Comics
• GKids (Secret of Kells)
• Devils Due
• Eigo Manga
• Red 5