Genealogists who use Ancestry.com have something new to check out. The newest version of the Ancestry.com app, Version 4, has been launched. Right now, Version 4 is available for iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch. They are planning on releasing Version 4 for Android soon.
Earlier this year, PC Magazine selected the Ancestry.com app, (Version 3), as one of the the very best genealogy apps. They noted that the app can be downloaded and used for free, but, to get full access to what the app can do a genealogist will need to purchase a membership to Ancestry.com. Naturally, those that already had a membership can think of the free app as a nice little “bonus”.
The new Version 4 of the Ancestry.com app is compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch. They are planning on adding some kind of “family view” functionality to Android “soon”, (but it is unclear when, exactly, that will be ready). Ancestry.com has posted a blog titled “Just Launched: Version 4 of the Ancestry.com app for iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch!” that explains more details about what is new in Version 4 of the app.
There is a new version of the Family Tree Viewer. They wanted to make it easier to interact with, and describe the new version as “more like interacting with a map or photo”. Pinch the screen to zoom in. Swipe the screen to move the entire family tree.
In the previous version of the app, it only showed direct lines in the family tree. The new version includes an option that will show grandchildren, siblings, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
The blog notes that some people have expressed that they want to have access to the way that the family tree functioned in the previous app. Ancestry.com has listened. In Version 4.0.1, they have done the following:
“Removed grandchildren from pedigree view to tighten it up”.
The new version of the app has filters that you can tap on in order to sort through your family tree. You can see “All People”, or “Direct Ancestors”. There is an option to view only “Living Relatives” or to start at the “End of the Line”. The new version of the app also gives genealogists a way to send Ancestry.com a suggestion, to email their support personnel, or to call their Member Services.
Image by Sean MacEntee on Flickr