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9 October 2026

Get the Economist app free trial – news, video and podcasts

Try the Economist app free and unlock daily global analysis, audio stories and interactive quizzes.

Get the Economist app free trial – news, video and podcasts

The modern world moves at breakneck speed, and staying informed demands more than a quick glance at headlines. Readers who crave depth, accuracy and a variety of formats now have a single platform that bundles all those needs.

The Economist app delivers independent, fact-checked reporting on politics, economics, science and culture, while also offering podcasts, short videos, and even news-themed games. Whether you are commuting, working from a café, or relaxing at home, the app reshapes how you consume information.

Why the app stands out for global insight

Daily fact-checked reporting

Every day the app refreshes with the latest stories that have passed a rigorous editorial process. Readers receive concise summaries as well as in-depth articles that explain the significance of each event. The global coverage spans American politics, European finance, Asian technology trends, and more, ensuring no major development slips through unnoticed.

Multimedia formats for every preference

Beyond text, the platform hosts Economist Insider episodes video explainers under five minutes, and award-winning podcasts that turn lengthy analysis into an enjoyable audio experience. Users can switch seamlessly between reading, listening or watching, tailoring the consumption mode to the situation at hand.

Subscription options and how to start a free trial

The service begins with an free trial that unlocks full access to all features. After the trial, several tiered plans are available: a monthly premium at $29, an annual premium at $289, and a three-month bundle at $74. Separate podcast-only subscriptions start at $6.90 per month or $69 per year. To begin, simply download the app, register with an email, and choose the trial option; one free article is also available each month without commitment.

Interactive tools and extra features

Engagement goes beyond passive reading. The app includes a mini crossword, a historical “Dateline” quiz, and a rapid-fill “Inboxes” challenge that let users test their knowledge while on the go. Additional conveniences such as bookmarking, adjustable text size, dark-mode display, and the ability to create custom audio playlists make the experience both personal and comfortable.

Sharing is built in, too—articles can be sent directly to friends or family, and the app stores an archive that lets you search past issues effortlessly. For those who prefer hands-free consumption, narrated versions of articles read by professional voice talent are available at the tap of a button.

Its blend of early-access weekly editions, exclusive interviews with figures like Elon Musk and Mark Carney, and a suite of personalization options positions it as a premier tool for anyone who wants to understand today’s events and anticipate tomorrow’s trends.

Author

Jordan Wells

Jordan Wells covers Pride, policy and the cultural arc with equal seriousness. Reports on legislation, films, and the writers reshaping queer narrative today.