Custom App Spotlight: ‘Ōlelo’s Mobile App
The app brings live broadcasts, on-demand programming, and public media tools into one platform—making it easier than ever to participate, produce, and stay informed.
Across Hawaii there is a long tradition of storytelling that has connected generations and communities, and in today's media landscape, these local voices are often pushed aside. That's where ‘Ōlelo Community Media steps in. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to empowering Hawaiian residents to share their stories and participate in the media process through video production tools, training, and broadcast opportunities.
For decades, ‘Ōlelo has offered in-person resources at community media centers across O'ahu. With the launch of their mobile app, they are expanding their mission to offer users a direct and on-demand way to engage with local programming, track government proceedings, and access public resources in real-time. In addition to its mobile app and community media centers, ‘Ōlelo provides hands-on access to production tools like studio facilities, equipment rentals, and training programs. These services help ensure that Hawaiian residents can produce and distribute original content that reflects their diverse experiences and perspectives.
Bringing Public Access to Mobile
The ‘Ōlelo app was developed to bridge the gap between traditional community broadcasting and the evolving expectations of today's mobile-savvy users. Whether you need to watch a City Council hearing live or revisit a recent community celebration, the app is built to make local content more accessible, searchable, and easier to navigate.
On the home screen, users are presented with quick links to each of ‘Ōlelo's four public access channels: 49, 53, 54, and 55. Each one is dedicated to a different category of programming, and they range from neighborhood board meetings to cultural showcases and inspirational broadcasts. All of the channels are available to stream live from the app and are also broadcast in HD on Hawaiian Telcom (channels 1049-1055 and 808).
Designed for Convenience and Community Engagement
Beyond live programming, the app also includes a wide range of tools designed to enhance community participation. With the VOD (Video on Demand) section, users can browse and stream archived programming by category, so if you ever miss an event or want to revisit a specific discussion, you can easily find it. Each video is categorized and searchable which ensures all users have quick access to what matters to them most.
The "Schedule" section offers a complete view of all upcoming broadcasts across all channels which helps residents plan ahead to watch legislative hearings, community events, and special interest shows. For viewers who want real-time updates, push notifications can be enabled for live programming announcements, breaking news, or changes to scheduled events.
One of the app's most civic minded features is its built-in traffic camera viewer. This allows users to check livestreams from the City and County of Honolulu's traffic cameras, helping commuters and concerned residents stay informed about current conditions on the road. The livestream also shows a broadcast of the current weather conditions at the airport for visitors and anyone flying in.
Empowering Producers and Creators
The app is not just for viewers, it's also a powerful tool for community producers and registered clients of ‘Ōlelo. Through a secure portal powered by the Media Center Manager (MCM), clients can manage every part of their production process right from their device. This includes things like reserving studio space and equipment, submitting programs, and enrolling in media training courses. The app offers a streamlined solution built for the needs of public access creators who need to manage their workflow without always having to be on-site. Additionally, users can make online submissions directly from the app, making it easier for anyone to start participating in community media.
A Platform That Reflects a Mission
Every aspect of the ‘Ōlelo app was created to reflect the organization's ongoing mission to uplift the underrepresented voices in their community. On top of this, their goal is to foster transparency, creativity, and civic engagement. Designed and developed by AppPresser as a fully custom-built mobile app, it extends ‘Ōlelo's values into the mobile space with the same care and attention that goes into their work on air.
News
Keep up to date with the latest ‘Ōlelo news articles!
Schedule
All ‘Ōlelo channels and times for each day are listed under the "Schedule" page.
VOD
Video on demand allows you to watch any ‘Ōlelo broadcasts that have already aired, by category.
Clients
Clients page powered by Media Center Manager, a simple one-stop solution for public media centers!
Download the App Today!
Super impressed with thought put into this app and the execution. Surpasses apps of cable providers such as Spectrum. Well done!
Community access typically is the B-Rated movue of the network station world. Not so with this app! It has a clean look and the interface smartly has the most used functions easily accessible. Best part, the speed and sharpness of the live stream! Hawaii News Now and Netflix watch out! This app is crazy fast!
This app is great and so user friendly. So far there have been zero hiccups!
