PressReader FAQ
Can we test PressReader before enabling it for patrons?
Yes, Clarivate recommends testing the integration within your UAT app before enabling it in your production app. This allows your team to become familiar with the experience, train staff, and prepare for any communication or marketing materials before launch.
Will patrons need to download a new app?
No. PressReader is included as part of an app update. Patrons will receive the integration when they update their app through the Apple or Google Play Stores.
PressReader is supported on the two latest iOS versions and all Android devices running version 7 or higher. Devices that do not meet these requirements will not be able to access the app.
How much content can I download for offline reading?
There isn’t a strict limit, but offline content will use the storage available on your device. Large magazines may require several hundred MB of space, so we recommend ensuring you have enough free storage before downloading multiple issues.
Are there limits on how many magazines the patron can borrow?
Borrow limits are generally set by your library, but in most cases, patrons can borrow and read any magazine included in the subscription without restriction.
Can the patron access magazines in multiple languages or editions?
Yes. Titles with multiple languages or editions will appear in the Related section of the Item Details Display, and patrons can select the edition or language they prefer (if included in the library subscription).
Will downloading magazines use mobile data?
Yes, downloading magazines uses data. We recommend using Wi-Fi for downloading large files to avoid exceeding your mobile data limits. Once downloaded, items can be read offline without additional data usage.
Why does PressReader require a separate app build?
PressReader functionality is part of a dedicated app build, not included in the standard Clarivate Vega Mobile App. This prevents unnecessary increases in app size for libraries that do not use PressReader. Only libraries enabling PressReader will receive this build on request.
What is the difference between “Open & Download” and “Open in PressReader”?
These two options provide different reading experiences:
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Open & Download opens the item in the Clarivate Vega Mobile in-app reader and downloads it for offline use.
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Open in PressReader launches the PressReader SDK experience, which may open an in-app browser or redirect to the PressReader app.
Do I need to configure PressReader for every app template?
Yes. PressReader must be configured for the app and templates that should support the integration. Clarivate will configure each requested environment during setup.
Can I enable or disable PressReader myself?
No. PressReader is enabled by the Clarivate team because it requires a dedicated app build and additional configuration.
Can I use PressReader in my test environment?
Yes. PressReader can be configured in test environments, allowing you to verify functionality before enabling it in production.
Can I customize how PressReader appears in my app?
Yes. You can customize how patrons discover PressReader content by creating dedicated tabs, home screen carousels, custom titles, banner images, and colors. The reading experience itself is provided by the PressReader SDK and cannot be customized.
Can I create more than one PressReader Showcases?
Yes. You can create multiple PressReader showcases using different feeds and categories. For example, you might create separate showcases for News, Business, Sports, and Lifestyle publications.
Can I display only newspapers or only magazines?
Yes. Depending on the PressReader Featured collection or Category you configure, your showcase can display newspapers, magazines, or a curated mix of both.
What happens to patrons using older devices?
Patrons who already have the app installed on an unsupported operating system can continue using their existing version of the app. However, they won't receive the PressReader-enabled app update or future updates until their device is upgraded to a supported operating system.
Can PressReader be removed from my app later?
Yes. If you decide to stop offering PressReader, please submit a case to Clarivate Support. A standard app build without the PressReader integration will need to be published.
Will every library see the same PressReader collection?
No. Patrons only have access to the newspapers and magazines included in your library's PressReader subscription.
Will enabling PressReader require a new app release?
Yes. PressReader requires a dedicated app build, so Clarivate will prepare and publish an updated version of your app that includes the PressReader integration.
Will the integration work even if we do not allow direct login to PressReader?
Yes, access requires only a valid Library Catalogue login, it is not dependent on being in the library or anything else. Furthermore, the Open in PressReader links will allow access to PressReader's app and website for a number of days.
If you wish to keep PressReader access restricted to your public PCs, a specific hotspot (WIFI), or another access method, this integration may not make sense for you.
