Local TV Stations Try Mobile Apps

When it comes to watching television on tablets and smartphones, viewers can download apps for big national services like HBO, ESPN and Netflix. And, since earlier this month, there is the "Watch KHQ" app for TV viewers in Spokane, Wash., who want to catch up with their local NBC affiliate.

"Watch KHQ" has its limits: Because the station doesn't yet have the Web rights to stream NBC's prime-time lineup or game shows like "Jeopardy," the app can't show much of what KHQ airs. But for TV stations such as KHQ, the app is an example of technology experimentation that is becoming a high priority for local broadcasters nationwide. Stations are trying to keep up with a rapidly changing television marketplace, where consumers are increasingly watching video online and via mobile devices. Broadcasters want to get the content that appears on their stations onto mobile devices before others do.