Meerkat live video app turns any iPhone user into a DIY broadcaster
Meerkat's streaming potential turns users into DIY broadcasters, for free
It's the free live-streaming video app that lets anyone with an iPhone become a roving reporter - and experts are already predicting it could redefine breaking news.
Meerkat has become a sensation since its low-key arrival on Apple's online App Store late last month, winning over journalists, politicians, pundits, social media celebrities and others.
The app integrates directly with Twitter, allowing users of the rapid-fire messaging platform to launch live video streams with a single touch.
Meerkat "marries the wide potential of live streaming with the instant and social strengths of Twitter. Two great tastes that go so well together," blogger Ryan Ozawa wrote.
"Imagine the applications for breaking news. Imagine deploying Meerkat at an event, with broadcasters and viewers easily interacting throughout."
The app uses the name and image of a meerkat, the long-necked carnivore from the deserts of southern Africa.
It works by posting a link connecting Twitter users to the video stream while it is in progress. Tiny profile icons pop up to show who is tuning in to broadcasts.