DK RSPB Bird Sounds is a free reference app for bird identification, providing audio recordings for over 200 species on iOS and Android.
The App DNA
What makes this app unique?
The application functions as a digital companion to physical birding guides, intended to drive cross-channel sales by providing audio verification for birdwatchers.
For Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts who own or use DK bird identification guides.
What does it look like?
Key features
Audio recordings for over 200 bird species, serving as a companion to physical identification guides.
Reference content for identifying bird species via audio, mapped to DK's editorial content.
How much does it cost?
The application functions as a free companion tool to support the publisher's physical book sales.
Velocity
Dormant developmentShow more...
4 versions in history. Development pace: zombie.
Who built it?
Dorling Kindersley
13+ apps tracked · Education
DK Quiz
DK English for Everyone
DK 15 Minute Language Course
DK Visual Dictionary (2017)
10 Minutes a Day Times Tables
DK Hugo In 3 Months
DK Illustrated Dictionary
DK Travel Phrase Book Audio
DK Bilingual Visual Dictionary
DK Virtual Reality
DK 5 Words
DK English for Everyone JuniorUser Sentiment
What do users think recently?
Recent user voice shows an upset sentiment.
How are ratings & reviews evolving?
What users say, by theme
- The application remains stuck on the initial loading screen, preventing any interaction with the core interface
1 of 1 recent reviews analyzed · limited sample
Read the full review analysisCompetition
Competitive landscape for DK RSPB Bird Sounds
How's the Education market?
DK RSPB Bird Sounds maintains a low profile in the Books & Reference category, currently ranking #164 in the UK store. The lack of updates over the last 556 days indicates a maintenance-only posture that limits growth potential.
Read the market outlookThe rivals identified
Unlock the deeper market read.
Access the full report for freeThe Analyst's Read
Key takeaways for DK RSPB Bird Sounds
Where is it heading?
The market for digital birding references is shifting toward active, community-driven platforms that offer real-time identification and social features. DK RSPB Bird Sounds remains trapped in a legacy state, and the lack of investment suggests the publisher has no intent to compete in this space.
- The persistent loading screen failure (active for over 550 days) prevents all user interaction, which guarantees continued churn and negative sentiment.
- The absence of any release activity for 556 days confirms the application is in a permanent maintenance-only state, effectively abandoning the user base.
The SWOT
- Audio library of 200+ species reinforces the utility of physical DK identification guides.
- Migration to a modern cross-platform framework could resolve the persistent loading screen issue.
Next best moves
Sunset the application because the persistent loading failure renders it a brand liability → eliminate negative sentiment.
The counter-intuitive read
The lack of updates is not a failure…
Read the full takeSince the last report: The application has moved from a state of technical neglect to a formal recommendation for sunsetting, as the persistent startup failure has rendered the product a liability to the publisher's brand.
Bottom line
DK RSPB Bird Sounds serves as a legacy companion tool that no longer functions, and the lack of updates suggests the publisher has deprioritized the digital experience in favor of physical media. Sunset the application to prevent further brand erosion.
Unlock 2 critical frictions, 1 market threat and the analyst’s take.
Access the full report for freeFAQ
Is DK RSPB Bird Sounds still being updated?
Does DK RSPB Bird Sounds work on modern phones?
What is the purpose of DK RSPB Bird Sounds?
Sources
Report last updated