App solemnly swears to show the inaugural

The first inauguration mobile app lets people watch festivities in D.C., wherever they are.

January 21, 2013 at 1:05AM
President Barack Obama is officially sworn-in by Chief Justice John Roberts, not pictured, in the Blue Room of the White House during the 57th Presidential Inauguration in Washington, Sunday, Jan. 20, 2013.
President Barack Obama was officially sworn-in by Chief Justice John Roberts in the Blue Room of the White House during the 57th Presidential Inauguration in Washington, Sunday, Jan. 20, 2013. (Associated Press - Ap/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

Couldn't make it to Washington for Monday's presidential pomp and circumstance?

Check it out on your smartphone.

The Presidential Inauguration Committee will be live-streaming the public festivities through its free mobile app, available for both Apple and Android devices.

"The inauguration is a celebration of the American people," said Steve Kerrigan, president and CEO of the nonpartisan committee. "That's why we've designed our app to make sure folks across this country don't miss a moment of history."

The Inaugural 2013 app, which offers connections to Facebook and Twitter, includes videos outlining prep for this year's ceremony and a collection of photos and videos from President Obama's first inauguration four years ago.

It also pushes community service with a video by First Lady Michelle Obama and links to volunteer events nationwide.

For those who do brave the crowds in D.C. Monday, the app offers some practical advice, too. Maps detail the parade route and the National Mall, plus point out important sites -- bathrooms, Jumbotrons and nearby Metro stations.

But why make the trip when you can watch the president in the palm of your hand?

about the writer

about the writer

Katie Humphrey

Regional Team Leader

Katie Humphrey edits the Regional Team, which includes reporters who cover life, local government and education in the Twin Cities suburbs.

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