2017-07-08
Worth Reading with this app.
This is the very first comment for me to upload.
I downloaded this app and then subscribed for a month in a few minutes ago. I satisfy to read RD from this app.
Updating
iPhone Screenshots
iPad Screenshots
Description
NEW for 2014: A beautiful redesign for iPad and a new iPhone edition. Designed exclusively for iOS7, it includes all the same content as our print and iPad editions, presented in an easy, mobile-friendly reading experience.
iPad users can preview articles from the latest issue. Enjoy a look around before you decide what’s right for you: single-issue purchase, or a month-to-month or yearly subscription.
· NEW SUBSCRIBERS: Enjoy a 30-day free trial on iPhone and iPad when you subscribe.
· PRINT SUBSCRIBERS: Enjoy 6 months free on iPhone and iPad. You can access issues on both devices using a single account.
About the Magazine
The interactive edition of Reader’s Digest lets you browse smart, useful tips on health, work, food, relationships, home, and money, all expertly selected from hundreds of online and print sources. You’ll discover original profiles of inspiring people, real-life dramas, insightful essays, and news roundups that get you up-to-date fast on the issues you care about. All the features and departments from the print edition are here, including the jokes and funny true stories, along with our famous Word Power column—now with automatic scoring and audio pronunciations. Each issue is enhanced with exclusive cartoons, videos, slide shows, animations, and useful Web links—all in a well-designed, easy-to-navigate interface.
Choose your Subscription Option
Get a 30-day FREE trial when you subscribe.
• 1-month subscription for $1.99 automatically renewed until canceled
• 1-year subscription for $14.99 automatically renewed until canceled
• Your subscription starts with the latest issue; back issues are not included, but you may purchase them as single issues ($3.99)
SUBSCRIBERS’ AUTOMATIC-RENEWAL FEATURE: Your credit card will be automatically charged for another subscription period (another year for annual subscribers, another month for monthly subscribers) unless you change your subscription preferences in your App Store account settings.
Terms of Use:
http://www.rd.com/terms-of-use/
Privacy Policy:
http://tmbi.com/privacy-policy/
What's New in Version 5.0
Updated for iOS 9 compatibility
Information
Developer
Categories
Version
5.0
Size
29.4 MB
Game Center
No
VPP Device Licensing
Yes
Rating
Rated: 4+
Compatibility
iOS 9.0 or later
Devices
iPad mini Retina (Cellular), iPad mini 4 (Cellular), iPad mini 3, iPad Pro (11-inch), iPad Air 2, iPad (6th generation) Wi-Fi, iPad (5th Generation) Wi-Fi, iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation), iPad Pro (11-inch) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad (5th Generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad mini (5th Generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation), iPad Air (3rd generation), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad Air (3rd generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad Pro (10.5-inch) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 6s, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone 8, iPad Pro (Cellular), iPad Pro (9.7-inch) (Cellular), iPad Pro (9.7-inch), iPhone 6s Plus, iPhone 5s, iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone X, iPhone XR, iPhone SE, iPhone 6, iPhone XS Max, iPad Pro (10.5-inch), iPhone XS, iPad mini (5th Generation), iPad (6th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad Pro, iPod touch (6th Generation), iPad Air 2 (Cellular), iPad mini 4
Languages
English, Arabic, Czech, Dutch, French, German, Hungarian, Italian, Japanese, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Swedish, Turkish
App Store: Customer Ratings
Ratings & Reviews
3.5 of 5 (2,067 Ratings)
App Store: Customer Reviews
2017-06-20
Hate the update
I've had the digital readers digest for many years and am so frustrated that this version doesn't save my place. Who reads it all in one sittting? It's meant for short reads. Please fix asap.
2017-06-08
Just what I need!
What a great way to start any day!!
2017-05-31
Viewing
Please go back to landscape viewing for iPads.
2017-05-26
The last upgrade lost capability
What happened to the interactive features and the ability to remember where I was reading? Removing those features was an upgrade? Bring back the old look and feel and I'll have a better rating. Until then, this version is a big disappointment.
2017-05-25
iPad app
I have had RD for 48 years. My daddy gave it to each of his children upon their marriage. I have done the same for my two daughters, and they love it too. The ease of reading from my iPad is a plus along with the beautiful photos and clear print. Love it!
The above apparently never went thru and was 3 years ago. It's now May 2017 and an update has made it difficult to return to where I was before closing out. Can't get some of the pictures to scroll or swipe to see more. Not very happy with this version!
2017-05-16
Ruined!
The loss of the place keeper has ruined this app. Who has time to find where you left off? So disappointing for this long time reader.
2017-05-16
Love reading RD this way!
Initially, the app was hard to use. I am glad that it was fixed. I appreciate how easy it is to download the new editions on my I-Pad. I just wish you had a bookmark feature. I tend to read RD in spurts so I always have to search for where I left off.
2017-05-15
Don't Update
After subscribing for 30+ years I cannot access new or previous issues. The app will not connect to the iTunes Store. RD will not support because the subscription was purchased through iTunes. iTunes support sent a generic list of "fixes" that were generated to help someone who doesn't know how to connect a device to the Internet. My other magazine apps have no problem downloading issues as I stated in my request for tech support.
2017-05-09
Tedious
I don't always read my RD all the way through before using another app. Then, after using another app, I have to load RD, load the version I'm on, then leaf through the pages to, hopefully, remember where I left off reading. Isn't there some way you can save my place?
2017-05-04
A great little magazine!
Interesting and informative. Readers Digest always maintains a consistent standard and the variety of human interest stories, educational and informative articles and humor are an unbeatable combination.
2017-04-27
Great.
I like it. :) stylish and neat, 5 ⭐️
2017-04-22
Worst. App. Ever.
I purchased a subscription which supposedly includes the digital editions as well.
Well good luck trying to access it within the app. I've registered my account and have tried multiple times to access the digital content. No success so far.
I am currently engaged in a meaningless back and forth with their "support" service. Their advice? Make sure you have the most up to date app. Well that seems to the be issue. Lovely.
The app is free but the subscription is not. I will be getting my money back and not dealing with them again.
2017-04-21
Lost my place
The only thing I don't like is that you have to remember where you left off if you leave the app. Finding your place on return could be challenging, especially if you don't return for quite some time.
2017-03-31
Version 5.0 Is Getting Better
I see that previously archived issues going back several years are again available to download. Thank you for that. Now, how about restoring interactive capability like it was in Ver. 4.1. The interactive features are the most enjoyable part of the online version of Reader's Digest. When that happens your app will once again rate a full five stars.
2017-03-27
Horrible
What were you thinking. I have to start over from the beginning every time. Think before you make changes. Especially bad ones!
2017-03-24
It's back
As of the April 2017 issue, the app is back to its great interactive glory. Previous issues, though, are still PDF.
2017-03-22
Horrible
Update was described as only an iOS compatibility fix. Instead, I lost an excellent app that was formatted specifically for the iPhone. I now have a useless PDFs reader. I have to pinch and expand and slide around each page just to read the document. In no longer saves the page when you close the app. Lousy app and deceitful description.
2017-03-18
P.O.S. update sent a virus and deleted all my previous downloads.
Don't update to this version. Sends a virus making your previous downloads (mine from 2012) useless. Been a subscriber for decades.
Digital was great until now. Not anymore. Anyone know how to go back a version?
2017-03-17
terrible!
I don't like this versions all well! Just pdfs! terrible! I regretted updating it! Can I change the app into the old versions?!!
2017-03-15
Horrible Update
I cannot restore my iTunes purchase of Readers Digest. I just had a chat with RD's customer service rep. She was terrible. Told me that because I bought a subscription from iTunes that it is Apple's problem not RD's. I just talked with Apple. They, of course, cannot help because it is obviously an app problem. I love reading RD, but they have a lot to learn about how to treat their customers. I will be cancelling my subscription.
2017-03-15
Updated March 14 2017 FOR iOS9????
And now it doesn't work at all, no wonder it was rewritten for old iOS!!!
2017-03-15
Do not update to 5
The new update is miserable. It's just a disappointing pdf version you can find in web without using this useless app. I'm not going to extend my subscription anymore.
2017-03-14
The latest update ruined it
It's just a PDF now. It's no longer formatted for the iPhone screen like it was before, rendering it almost useless. I think I'll unsubscribe.
2017-03-10
Review
I don't know how to use this application. I purchased this subscription but it's difficult to access my issues. Very disappointed
2017-02-18
RD, Mom's Legacy
First saw RD when I was a 6 year old girl growing up in Ghana. My mom brought a few current and past editions back from her Midwifery studies in England. My mom loved RD and passed this love on to me and I continued to feast on RD through the decades. Today, a month shy of my 50th birthday, I look back and I am grateful for my mom's legacy. Mom is no longer with us but I'm glad I was able to get her a subscription of RD on her IPad when she finally caught up with technology. She continued to enjoy her beloved RD till she passed.
Thank you RD for this App.
2017-02-12
The programmers need to get it together
Trying add /register my print account, it pops up say i need to tap the my account button below that does not exist.
2017-01-30
Access
Right now it's a 2 it may get better, maybe not. Opened app tried to find where to link sub with digital and boom up pops feb 14 cover and no way to get rid of it. Restart app same thing. Grr
2017-01-03
Rip off
App wouldn't load page for forgotten password or to change password. But it take my $14.99 for year subscription that I can't access. Also took another $3.99 for and issue to read. Dead ends in this app
2016-11-17
Word Power
I downloaded the app based on the note in the Word Power section of the print RD magazine: "To play an interactive version of word Power on your iPad, download the Reader's Digest app."
I thought the interactive version would be more words, more game. It is just the print version on the screen. OK, yes, I can click my answers and it scores it for me. Not what I expected. Disappointing!
2016-10-09
Always with me
I carry the latest RD magazine with me at work. Great that I can now have it with me on the go everywhere. And I don't have to worry about picking up the latest issue at the grocery store. Love RD.
2016-10-06
NO DOWNLOAD
Reader's Digest App would not download. As a result I canceled my subscription. I couldn't even get access to the free month.
2016-09-26
App Closes Unexpectedly
I just downloaded the app and linked it to my print subscription. Four times while reading the current issue the app closed when I scrolled down the page while reading an article. I expected a better experience from you Reader's Digest!!
2016-09-12
Good app
The readers digest app is a nice way to consume the content. I usually read the printed version, but when traveling find the app useful. The added content is great, but since the publication is so good, I feel a bit off. Why add more?
2016-08-27
Great App
Luv reading the hopeful stories
2016-08-18
Love Reader's Digest!
Even better on my iPads! Thanks for this digital version. It's so much easier to keep up with my monthly subscription with this app. Fabulous!
2016-07-30
Horrible!
I have to contact customer service every other month because the system somehow loses my information. Then I get the pleasure of deleting all previous digital editions, then restoring them if I choose, in order to get the latest edition downloaded.
By the time I do that, I've lost the desire to read the issue.
2016-07-30
Irritating
I've had a digital subscription for close to three years now. It is very irritating when I have to contact customer service almost every time I want to download the latest issue because the system has somehow lost my information. By the time the problem is resolved (which once took two days), my anticipation for reading the magazine has waned.
2016-07-28
Awesome
Great interface! Easy to use! No problems linking print and digital accounts.
Tip--login can be your account number, PW is your zip code
2016-07-22
App login
I love the magazine, but the app to login is hideous. I can't wait for my print subscription.
2016-07-11
Have had no problems...
Love being able to read it on my iPad!! I was able to log in with no problems--just googled how to do it. I don't remember exactly what I googled, but try "connect iPad to readers digest subscription." Love the app!!!
2016-07-09
Non Responsive Customer Service
Cannot link my print subscription to digital.
User name and password given doesn't work.
Reset password 4 times still waiting for the link to be sent to my e-mail address. Really bad app and customer service
2016-06-23
RD is a pain in the ***
They claim that print subscribers can get RD on line free and each month they send an email saying it is ready but you can't do anything but BUY the on line version. It is too expensive to do both and too hard to download! My wife prefers the print and I prefer the digital.
2016-06-23
Better than the books
I now do most of my reading, books and magazines with my I-Pad. Easy to carry and I can always have it handy, waiting is no longer a problem.
2016-06-20
No go
RD doesn't work at all on my iPhone, but it works great on my Kindle. What I don't understand is why I can't get any help with the problem. If it was my choice, I wouldn't give this app any stars because I've tried repeatedly to get it to work and it hasn't. I love RD, I'm 50 and I've been a fan of the magazine ever since I could read my grandma's. I still remember some of the stories back then. I would actually love to read them again, if only RD could digitalize the older back issues. I would love to see more of the old stories.
2016-06-20
App issues coming later
I have enjoyed reading Reader's Digest for years. My husband still subscribes to the print edition. I'm certain that the app issues used to come earlier in the month. Now, they don't show up until after my husband's print edition, which arrives around the middle of the month. Why can't the app edition come earlier in the month than the print edition?
2016-06-18
Customer service the pits
App does not work well. RD is a dishonest company, subscription dates keep on changing.
2016-06-12
Good bye RD
I am tired of wrestling with trying to get the iPad version to work when I occasionally want to read it online. Either give access to the online version with subscription or not. This long time subscriber is calling it quits for good.
2016-06-07
Junk
Ridiculous. I have iPhone 6 and my husband a 6+. App is worthless. Nothing works on either phone. Can't create account. Can't sign in. Zero stars if I could.
2016-06-06
RD Service Stinks
I have contacted the Reader's Digest customer Service four times now with no help forthcoming. I have requested assistance in linking my Reader's Digest subscription to the digital access app. I have described in detail what is happening, or not happening when I attempt to link the app to my subscription via phone and email. It's now been over two weeks since I have repeatedly requested assistance with this problem. I keep being told that the home office must be emailed and I will hear from them but so far just emails promising help but no help. I have given the. Me verified account number, my phone number, my email address, my browser information, etc but so far I am being ignored by Readers Digest which is quite surprising to me given to company. I had always thought that Reades Digest was top quality but NOT!!!!
2015-11-01
Fix the bugs first.
Dear Readers Digest,
I have been a fan of RD for 50 years. This is a first class magazine that has a bug filled app.
If your print copy was out of alignment or misprinted wouldn't you fix the error at the printing press? Dump your I.T. person and start providing first class service on your App just like you would do for your print copy.
I also noticed that on your sample page that I am not able to read your magazine in a horizontal position. I would not consider a purchase if these issues are not addressed.
2015-10-10
Can't get it loaded
Tried to get the app on my IPad and I keep getting error messages don't know what is going on but would like to be able to open it, subscribe to the magazine and read it.
Can't log in now, I enter my email address and password it says cannot authenticate do I click on forgot password. I click on link in email to reset password and enter a password and it says new password accepted. So I go back to app and try to log in it says cannot authenticate. So I try registering a new account and it says email already registered. So how does someone get into their account???????????? Getting ready to take the app off my iPad and iPhone.
2015-09-12
Now this is the way to read RD!
I really enjoy reading RD this way, and I'm in my 60s. I've read RD for years, then drifted away from them because they changed a lot. Well, they changed back so I gave them another try in the print version. Next, I got myself an iPad mini and saw that I could get a few free electronic copies because I was a current subscriber so I tried it and this is much better than the printed version. Well done RD, I like this.
2014-10-20
Too much time to download
It takes so much time to download an issue, and it doesn't download in the background. You have to stay on the RD page. Granted, you can start reading, but I usually reach a stop because I've read up to where it has downloaded.
The other problem is that, if you're reading a long story, and you accidentally swipe to the next story, you are returned to the beginning of the story. Reading the story on plane crash survivors, I had to start over 5 times, each time watching this stupid plane fly onto the page. I don't need the special effects, just an app that works.
2014-10-18
I'm a print subscriber ....
And I really love the readers digest! But this is the worst and most messed up installation process of any app I've ever installed!!!
I was really looking forward to using the digital edition of this publication but just the installation and enrollment process for print subscribers was awful, complicated, and bugged. Honestly, I still don't even know if I'm finished or if it worked! I'm still waiting for a confirmation email that never came. The initial setup process needs a serious revamp. I was so frustrated by the end of it that I couldn't even stand to look at it long enough to read an article.
2014-09-21
Love it but
I really enjoy reading RD and love even more that I can subscribe and read it on my iPad. I'd have given it 5 stars if reading sub articles, the ones that are connected to an article I'm currently reading was a smoother process. The screen usually flashes 5-6 times before it stops and I can read the article. It's probably due to the ads it's loading. If RD could fix that annoying feature it would get 5 stars all the way
2014-09-01
Great app, but please, a large print edition for friends
This is a great app for a great magazine that I have enjoyed for decades. Two things I feel it needs though, a large print edition so that I can get friends that need larger print on the bandwagon, and a better Humor in Uniform section. As things stand now, the Humor in Uniform section is a dismal ghost of the great humor section it once was. Keep the section in the magazine, just make it better. Lastly, I also think that Word Power is great in this format, way better than the print version.
2014-08-19
Very enjoyable read
I really didn't expect to enjoy this magazine as much as I do. It has a nostalgic factor for me, as I remember discovering issues around the house as a kid. So I decided to give it a try today. To my surprise, the modern day version is great. It's easy to pick up and read without committing a lot of time. The content is fairly light, fun, and uplifting. I suggest giving it a try.
2014-08-18
Readers Digest Digital is great
I've been a Readers Digest reader for 60+ years. I love this digital app. It presents RD in ways that add to my enjoyment. Its thoughtful use of technology has brought new life to its content. I look forward to each digital issue with the same excitement and anticipation I previously experienced with the sight of the new issue in my mail. And, to be able to have dozens of issues with me on my iPad everywhere I go is a 5 star bonus.
My congratulations to the RD team that keep making a good thing better.
2014-04-28
Issues reading some scroll down stories!
I love the Reader's Digest Ipad & Iphone versions, for years I have been reading the paper magazine and always enjoy it.
Lately, I am having problems reading some of the scroll down stories, in particular I was never able to finish the introduction to the "Everyday Heroes Video" in the March issue. The scrolling feature get stuck & I am not even able to go to the next story unless I go directly from the table of contents.
2014-04-20
Readers Digest Rocks
The main reason I subscribe to RD is the articles are short, to the point, informative, and always worth the read. As a child, my parents always got RD and every now and then, I'd pick up an issue to read. It never failed. I was invested in the stories and found them entertaining and educational. Thank you, Readers Digest for a terrific magazine.
2014-03-13
Always Informative
I've been a reader for 50 years. My mother was a teacher and thought reading in a public school system. She used Readers Digest to keep the students interest. She noticed that her son did not enjoy reading as much as she felt he should. She introduced him to Readers Digest and as she noticed he kept reading it. She bought him a subscription for 45 years until her passing.
I was reading this great magazine, from cover to cover for and enjoyed it so much. Later in life i continued to read to keep up with world events and current events and enjoyment. Even while I was in the service I received them every month. Doing this made my reading skills improve, and got me into a profession of helping people.
After my mother passed, I still received Readers Digest for two more years. I skipped a couple of years and then realized how much I missed the articles and started a new digital subscription.
Thank you the Publishers and Writers present and past for all the years of enjoyment.
Kenneth Wray
2013-11-22
I wish you could view current issue and previous issue with out having to pay for past issues!
Because that is double jeopardy and if someone wants to read back issues the have the right to without having to pay for an issue again because it is a rip off and if someone pays for the whole year the have the right to be able and read back issue no charge, if you are still going to do that then up the issue price for the whole year or people will start not renewing for your digital issue and will report you to your better business bureau!!!
2013-09-02
Might very well be the best online publication
Stunning! Total enjoyment from start to finish. I used to pass by the Reader's Digest at the checkout counter, but always liked reading it in the doctor's office or on vacation, so I tried it on my iPad.
Let's put it this way- if other "old school" publications that are dying on the vine took your advice and joined the digital revolution in a beautifully crafted, creative way like this, you would help save the publishing industry.
5 stars? How about 10!!!
2013-08-02
Better than the print version!
I really enjoy the extra interactive features that come with the iPad version. Playing Word Power is so much easier not having to go back and forth to see which ones you got correct. Plus having every issue available to me any time I want without dusty back issues piling up is the best. One of my favorite magazines on iPad!
2013-01-29
So far, no go
I installed this app a day or so ago and so far have not been able to read anything on it. Why does it advertise that, if you have a print subscription, you get six months of the iPad subscription? One issue is shown as being available for download, but any other issues are available for $3.99 each. The one available for download has not actually downloaded at all yet. I'll update the review if and when this actually happens.
Also, why do they issue a user name? Why not let us choose one that we could actually remember?
I actually think this is a good idea for a magazine. I would think that emagazines should be included at no extra cost if you have a print subscription. That seems to be getting less common, but the emagazines issue should cost SUBSTANTIALLY less than print. If this is not the case, I will not be interested in the esubscription.
2012-12-28
Inexperienced?
Did the developers of this app ever hold a real ipad in their hands? This app won't do anything an iPad app should! It won't display landscape, cant change font, or size, won't even scroll in portrait layout. You have to flick a page at a time both ways.
Get an iPad and use the iBooks app for 10 min and see how an iPad reader app is supposed to work!
In fact, better still, learn to make it downloadable as an iBook, or at least compatible on a kindle app.
This version lacks experience as an iPad version all around.
Sorry to have to say so, but really, its true!
2012-09-16
Works very well, just got rid of the noises when opening a new issue
The earlier editions of this app were somewhat rough, but they've got it figured out now. The app remembers the issue you are reading and your place in it. I find it very easy to read from "cover ti cover" or I can jump around as I please.
Really, my only request is to get rid of the cutesy noises whenever you open a new issue. I finished one in my doctor's office recently and elected to not start the next issue until I was somewhere private so I wouldn't disturb the other folks there.
2012-08-25
Ridiculous
I was so thrilled to see I could get my readers d on my iPad. I had already been a subscriber and am into helping the environment. However, each time I go to read one I have to sign up all over again.
I had also purchased some back issues and they are no longer on my ipad to read. Why do I have to keep re -subscribing? It also keeps asking me for my acct #. The magazine comes in a protective wrapper that is quickly tossed away. This is a waste of time. . It should not be this hard. Very disappointing.
2012-07-26
Surprisingly good!
After reading all of the negative reviews, my expectations were really low. However, I really like it! It's easy to navigate, the colors are vivid, and the multimedia features bring the features to life. I also like being able to buy one issue at a time. If you ever get a regular subscription to Reader's Digest, they hound you to death for years with other offers. Overall, I'm very pleased to be able to read this American classic on my iPad.
2012-06-26
Loved it when it worked.
Unfortunately, after the April 2012 update, it hasn't worked. I have been in contact with customer support for the last two weeks and they keep telling me it will be fixed. Still waiting. At this point, none of the issues I purchased are available. The only option listed is to buy, and none of the issues past May 2012 are even visible. What's going on here?
2012-06-18
The "system" is more important than customers at RD
I just spoke with a rep at RD. I recently set-up my online subscription to access RD via my iPad. Since registering I've been unable to download the current issue without paying. The IT rep told me my online subscription won't begin until September (note this is June 18). So I'll have to go almost the entire summer without accessing an issue. I've never had this problem with any other magazine for iPad. The person said that is the way the system works and you can't over-ride the system. I suggest RD worry less about "the system" and figure out how to worry more about customers.
2012-06-09
I love it!
Love the extra features, like the video vignettes and the web links and the interactive elements. It brings the print magazine to life! It takes a bit to download the whole issue, but it's not terribly long. I do wish the app was Retina display-motized, but it's certainly not a deal breaker. Keep the great issues coming!
For those complaining about various things:
As a print subscriber, you do get like 6 months of issues free, but after that you need to choose which one you want, the physical or digital issue. It's not going to free forever for you, nor should it be.
For those who got the yearly subscription, you do have to go into the library section to download your new issues as they come available. They'll be marked Download and not "Buy". It's not going to download automatically for you, because then you'd complain about that.
As for downloading it, ideally you should just wait for the whole issue to download before you start reading it. Start the download and put the iPad down and go do something for a minute.
2012-05-28
Terrible app, miserable UI, very frustrating
This is a really poor app, and is very frustrating to use. The navigation is very poorly designed. It downloads each book for a long time, one would think the download means that the book is now available offline. No sir, then it needs to download each page as you go to read it. What was the point of the initial download? The in-app store refuses to work in landscape mode. Instead of being able to read like a book, you need to swipe in all possible directions to navigate around. The focus of the app is to just sell you more, as it keeps returning to the store-front all the time. Terrible strategy by such a respected publication.
2012-03-29
Love it!
Reading some of the reviews I was apprehensive, but I am so glad I downloaded it! All the extras, animation, and the picture quality is amazing. It does take about 5 minutes to download a new issue but worth it with what it holds. Nowadays we are so use to having everything within seconds some people freak when they have to wait. Seems like a lifetime to some I guess. Definitely worth the wait. I've been a subscriber and am thankful it is now at my fingertips.
2012-01-11
Could be better
I did not have a problem downloading, however as many people have said, a condensed version would be better as it takes a long time for the entire file to download. As a current paying print issue subscriber, i feel access to issues in this app with a yearly paid subscription should be included in that cost. If this does not change, i do plan to remove this application from my ipad once the 6 month trial is up.
2012-01-11
I Love It
I download two copies in less then ten minutes. I just changed my settings to never lock and within ten minutes I had the two copies I wanted downloaded and ready to read. I just let my print subscription lapse and and looking forward to having this right on my iPad. Looking forward to getting into all the interactive features.
2012-01-06
Impressed
I have not read Reader’s Digest for many years, but just downloaded the recent issue on my iPad and was thoroughly impressed! This format really brings the content to life. The writing, graphics and interactivity were all amazing – totally changes my opinion of this magazine. I had no issues with the download time and will definitely buy future issues.
2012-01-05
You get what you pay for
I don't get the big deal about downloads. It doesn't take THAT long--maybe five minutes--and I can start looking at the issue while it's downloading. Probably the videos and extra stuff thats included. Anyway I think it's worth the wait. I used to read this magazine as a kid and loved it but had kinda forgotten about it. Its full of really interesting stuff.
2011-12-25
Need improvements!
Downloads are VERY time consuming since they are so huge. why can't it download like a regular book? If you have a print subscription in large print and you sign up for it on your iPad, you'll actually have to call them ( not the number they supply) and they'll connect you to the correct number. they will have to make adjustments and ask you a bunch of questions.
RD will have to make a lot of improvements before this is an adequate e- magazine. It's not worth the time, memory and hassle. Glad I didnt pay the annual amount!
2011-12-14
Don't buy this
First, it took forever to download it. But i also have to admit that the internet at home is pretty slow. Even considering that, it took forever and i couldnt do anything with my ipad for like 3 hours because it will stop downloading if i use another app.
It would have been worth it, if only it worked! At the end of long downloading, some error occured and i had to download it all over again. That happened twice and i dont know if i will even try again. I think i just wasted $15. They need to fix this problem!!!!!!
Until then, dont subscribe it.
2011-11-15
A long time to download but worth it
I downloaded my first issue and was surprised to see it was 392mb. I was using my home wifi connection and it did take about 15-20 minutes to load but once it did, it was great! I Always enjoyed the print magazine but this has interactive features and even some videos! I think it's worth the long download time. PS. I didn't experience any problems with my iPad "timing out" during the download. Just change the auto lock time in settings during the download and then change it back. No problemo.
2011-11-14
Download speed and review
After reviewing some of the comments I decided to time the download. Let me say that I am running about 16mb/sec from my provider which has resulted in about a 6 min download. I agree with the other reviewers if you have a slow provider this may not be what you want. However, this will be true for any electronic subscription you may have. I also have another magazine I subscribe to with about the same amount of time for about 400meg of data.
The one thing I don’t appreciate is the automatic renewal system however you can go to your subscriptions on your IPAD and turn it off so the automatic renewal doesn’t happen if you choose to do so.
Over all I find the electronic version very easy to maneuver around though people that aren’t savvy to this type of viewing may have difficulty in doing so. I also have found some of the articles require internet access which I believe is another problem. If you’re going to download the magazine you shouldn’t need internet access.
I’m still happy with the magazine overall so I give it four stars. I would have given it five stars if the above issue wasn’t true.
2011-10-30
Great!
This is a fantastic app! The magazine looks even better than the print version, the interactive elements are easy to use, and the links open in their own window so you don't lose your place. There are multiple ways to navigate through the magazine and it is quite easy to either read straight through or pick and choose what you want to focus on. It took just less than 5 minutes to download, which to me does not seem excessive given its size. I am looking forward to the next edition!
2011-10-27
Download a problem
Looks like a great app...but... The download is impossible. Not only does the download stop if you go to another app, but will stop when the iPad times out and turns off. The only way to download an issue is to sit and stare at the iPad for about an hour... hope they come up with a solution, but I'm not subscribing until I can download the sample. Two stars because it has great content once it is downloaded, but only 2 because unobtainable content is a problem...if only it would download in the background like purchased apps do
2011-10-26
Feature filled
This has to be one of the best magazine apps I've seen so far. It is quite feature filled and keeps improving.
Because there are so many good things in this app, you will want to download each issue when you are on WiFi because the files are between 300 and 400mb large.
Over all, this is a great and enhanced representation of the print edition. A nice value as a subscription too.
2011-10-21
Needs to utilize variety of formats
Just purchased the latest version of RD before reading the reviews...not a BIG mistake but something a buyer/reader should consider. The digests are approximately 400 megabytes and they are not, repeat NOT condensed or in PDF formats. Something this publishing company should definitely look into. It does take a bit of time to down load files that are that large, especially on most home networks.
But once downloaded everything worked the way it was Supposed to, happy with the content, just not pleased with the download time.
2011-09-20
App works great!
At first I subscribed to the paper copies expecting to get 6 mos digital free and I received "authentication failed" when trying to log in according to their directions and with the userid and password they provided. However, the next day when I synced my iPad with iTunes, I saw there was an update for my iPad2. After updating my iPad, I tried to login again with RD. I had no more issues with my login. Everything is working great! I've downloaded Sep and Oct issues already. I love it and Reader's Digest!
2011-09-18
Free issue looked great, now I can't access anything
I perused the free issue, liked what I saw, paid for a year's subscription, and nothing has changed. Cannot see any other issues, prompts me to subscribe again.
I think something is failing during the signup process, because there was a weird lull where I should have been take to my available issues. Now I'm just stuck.
On top of that, there is no guidance anywhere on what to do in this case. App subscription process needs work, and I need help! Someone please guide me here. I will re-rate once I can access what I paid for.
2011-09-08
Rediscovering Reader's Digest!
Works like charm! And, they have read the comments too, as a subscriber I was able to download it free for six months. I loved it so much I subscribed anyway! Having multimedia added a dimension not available in the print version. Hopefully, all those negative reviews won't keep you from reading Reader's Digest in your iPad. I'm super glad I ignored them and I think you will too!
2011-09-06
So far so great!
I'm really enjoying RD on the iPad! The demo issue loaded slowly and had to be restarted a couple of times, but it was worth a bit of effort. No problem downloading issue two. ...I'm on a first generation iPad, by the way.
The art is sharp and bright. The interactivity is great. Navigation is excellent!! Glad the experiences of other reviewers didn't scare me away!
Great job! I'm going to get my money's worth out of this subscription.
2011-09-05
Nice app. Do people expect prior versions for free?
I am not a print reader, at least not for years. This digital version is great. I find the comments by others that they have to pay for prior versions odd. If I subscribe to a print magazine today, I don't expect them to give me a years worth of prior printed magazines for free. Why would this be different? I am paying for a year in the future.
This is slick and digital content is expensive to produce. I don't expect it to cost less than paper necessarily.
2011-08-24
Finally someone gets it right!
It took nearly a year and a half from the iPads initial launch before a magazine actually put together a reasonable subscription based app. No stupid need to be a print subscriber, no over the top charges for useless bells and whistles. You get the basic mag with a bit of connectivity for a very good subscription price. Outstanding! This is the mag model we have all been waiting for.
2011-08-20
Nice App
I am very happy to see a Reader's Digest magazine app, which offers a subscription. I have been a print subscriber for many years and have greatly enjoyed the magazine. The magazine layout is well thought out and the navigation is easy to use. I like to save articles for future reference so a way to bookmark articles would be nice
2011-08-17
Worthless for print subscribers
I would have given "0" stars if that was an option. I only wanted this app because it promises current print customers free digital edition for 6 months. Unfortunately after signing up with my account number I still get error messages when trying to download current edition although it shows as purchased. I called the number supplied in app support and the service center didn't have any idea what I was talking about. I read them the promise from the app and they still said there were unwilling to assist me. They finally agreed, after my request to get a refund, to convert my subscription to digital but it won't be effective for 2 months. Yes, the app is free but it is not worth the hassle.
2011-08-02
Nice App, but Way Overpriced & Slow
This is a pretty nice app. I am a current subscriber to the digital version of the Reader's Digest and receive and read it via the Zinio Reader. While this iPad app has some sound and animation, it is no where near $3.99 per issue. I am very disappointed in the price. It is also the SLOWEST digital magazine that I get. I subscribe to The Daily and it is a bigger publication and has more video and audio built into it. The Reader's Digest has been trying to download for the past two days and it is STILL not finished downloading completely. I am going to delete the Reader's Digest iPad app today and renew my digital subscription through Zinio.
2011-07-24
Nice enough app, but no login for subscribers? Forget it!
There are enticements throughout the paper version of Reader's Digest to download and view "extras" if you have an iPad. None of them mention that it will cost you $4 more PER ISSUE than your subscription to access those extra bits. In a day when magazines are trying hard to give their subscribers value, I'm frankly stunned that RD, which I have subscribed to for decades, doesn't take the lead, leaving this to the likes of Wired and GQ. Paper subscribers to those and other magazines get free downloads of issues they've already gotten in the mail. I'd like a digital subscription (and would cancel my paper one, saving the company money), but at $50/ year, no thanks!
2011-05-09
Please do a subscription based model
I love readers digest, and have had a readers digest subscription for years, in fact, I have gifted several subscriptions to my parents and grand parents. I love your stories, especially the laugher sections you have, (laugher in uniform, all in a days work) etc...
However, the lack of a digital subscription is a bit frustrating. I think your book size is the perfect size for a jacket pocket or a cargo pocket (when I was military) but now as we have evolved to a digital medium I would love to access my subscription via an iPad. I would even be willing to have both, or a supplemental to share with my friends when they come over. (I always have 4 or 5 on my coffee table)