# Livestreaming Sports Apps The New ESPN App Features Self-Contained Streaming Functionality By Rahul Kalvapalle | Published 2015-12-04 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/espn-app References: [engadget](http://www.engadget.com/2015/12/03/watchespn-access-in-espn-app/) & [espnmediazone](http://espnmediazone.com/us/press-releases/2015/12/watchespn-access-now-available-in-the-espn-app/) The latest version of the [ESPN](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/shareplay) app now allows sports fans to watch [live streams of sporting events](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/roku-sports-channel) from the very same app that they use for all other ESPN-related activities such as checking scores, interacting with other fans and being on top of their favorite teams' schedules. ESPN has for some time now maintained a separate live-streaming app called WatchESPN, targeted towards users of the dedicated service. However, this required people to be redirected from the ESPN app to WatchESPN, something which is a strain on smartphone power and sports fans' patience. Ultimately, this new ESPN app is designed to combine the functionalities and audiences of two veritable behemoths in the [sports apps world](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/outyplay). This will allow for more streamlined enjoyment of sports content, and easier app maintenance for ESPN. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 1.9/10 - Popularity: 36% | Activity: 14% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 90% men, 10% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Mobile](https://www.trendhunter.com/mobile) ## Key Themes ### What Makes This Trend Stand Out - **Livestreaming Integration:** The integration of livestreaming into existing digital platforms creates convenience for users and increases engagement. - **Multifunctional Apps:** Consolidating various functionalities into one app can improve user experience and simplify app maintenance. - **Seamless User Experience:** Providing a seamless user experience by eliminating unnecessary app redirections and improving app functionality has the potential to attract and retain users. ### Sectors Adopting This - **Sports Technology:** Sports technology companies that integrate livestreaming capabilities into their mobile apps can provide a more comprehensive sports experience for their users. - **Mobile App Development:** Mobile app development companies can capitalize on the trend of consolidating multiple functionalities into one app by creating multifunctional apps for various industries. - **Media & Entertainment:** Companies in the media and entertainment industry can innovate by providing a seamless user experience for accessing and consuming content, such as livestreamed sports events. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Co-Viewing Sports Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/shareplay.md) - [Betting-Ready Sports Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/apple-sports.md) - [Livestream Football Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nfl.md) - [Social Sports Applications](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ea-sports-app.md) - [Sports-Only Streaming Services](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mysports-directv.md) - [Gen Z Sports Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/stadium-live.md) - [Integrated Streamed Sports Platform](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/roku-3.md) - [Streamlined Swiss Sports Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mysports.md) - [Sports Streaming Hubs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bet-caddy.md)