Report updated Apr 7, 2026
PG Citizen
v6.5Local residents of Prince George, BC, and news enthusiasts who prefer the traditional layout of print media in a digital format.
What Is PG Citizen?
Launched Jul 9, 2013
Updated Jan 2023
What does it look like?
What are the key features?
Provides a digital replica of the traditional printed newspaper with all stories, photos, and artwork intact.
Allows users to conduct specific searches within the publication content.
Enables users to share articles directly from the app interface.
Download the e-Edition to read content anytime and anywhere without an active internet connection.
Easy-to-use interface designed to mimic the experience of flipping through a physical newspaper.
What do users think? iIndependent intel reports to help builders create better apps or enhance existing ones. Still in beta, accuracy and relevancy get better every day. For informational purposes only.
Gathering public signals...
Sentiment analysis will be available once enough user reviews are collected.
What are the pros and cons?
Pros
- Heritage brand authority (since 1915)
- PressReader technology infrastructure
- High-fidelity digital replica experience
Cons
- Low app store engagement/rating volume
- Infrequent update schedule
- Niche focus on replica layout over mobile-first feeds
What is the market outlook?
Growth Opportunities
- Hybrid view (replica vs. mobile-optimized text)
- Hyper-local community feature integration
- Targeting the local expat demographic
Market Threats
- Real-time local news rivals (CKPGToday)
- Algorithmic news aggregators (NewsBreak, SmartNews)
- Generational shift away from traditional print layouts
Who competes with PG Citizen?
Peers
Major regional broadcaster with a strong digital presence and dedicated BC local news categories.
All-Access Content Ecosystem
Uses algorithmic discovery to surface local BC news stories to users based on their geographic location.
SmartNews+
CBC News: Breaking & Local
CBC
Provides extensive regional BC sections that compete with local outlets for breaking news and investigative reporting.
Provides extensive regional BC sections that compete with local outlets for breaking news and investigative reporting.
NewsBreak: Local News & Alerts
★4.8 (1349K)Particle Media Inc.
Aggregates local news from Prince George sources, acting as a discovery platform that can divert traffic from direct apps.
Aggregates local news from Prince George sources, acting as a discovery platform that can divert traffic from direct apps.
New Kids on the Block
Ground News
★4.7 (40K)Snapwise Inc.
A fast-growing news comparison tool that appeals to the Citizen's 'official record' audience by showing multiple perspectives.
A fast-growing news comparison tool that appeals to the Citizen's 'official record' audience by showing multiple perspectives.
What are the key takeaways?
PG Citizen is a divisive news app that is free with in-app purchases. With a 4.5/5 rating from 2 reviews, it receives mixed feedback from users.
Best for: Local residents of Prince George, BC, and news enthusiasts who prefer the traditional layout of print media in a digital format.
How much does it cost?
Model: freemium
The app functions as a localized entry point for the broader PressReader ecosystem, using a free model to drive user acquisition while upselling a comprehensive global subscription.