Chattanooga Times Free Press Goes Digital (With a Free iPad)
Breaking news: the Chattanooga Times Free Press is swapping its paper stacks for tablets—because who still wants to read news on dust‑laden paper, right? The publisher is rolling out a bold plan to hand out iPads and a digital newspaper to its loyal subscribers by 2022.
How the Shift Works
- Monday May 1st: The first wave of subscribers gets their shiny new iPads and starts downloading the daily paper right on their screens.
- Phased rollout: From there, the paper gradually narrows its print delivery—one step closer to full digital freedom each week.
- Sunday pause: The Sunday edition will still land on your doorstep in classic print form until the final curtain call in mid‑2022.
Why All the Fuss?
The move isn’t just about being flashy; it’s a smart step to keep the newsroom lean, share news instantly, and be environmentally friendly—less paper, more screens, and a happier planet!
What the Subscribers Get
- Free iPad (yes, that’s a gift—not a price tag).
- Instant access to the daily newspaper—think stories that scroll faster than your coffee reaches the mug.
- Smaller, cleaner inbox (no dust bunnies, one less paper trail).
Final Word
So, next time you’re scrolling through your digital news, just remember: behind those pixels, the Chattanooga Times Free Press is handing out iPads, cutting down on paper, and having a swanky new chapter of its story. Stay tuned for the last print edition—on Sundays only—before the newsroom fully embraces the digital age.
Apple‑Age gifting: The “Get an iPad or Lose It” Subscription Plan
What’s the deal? If you stick with the $34‑per‑month plan, you’ll finally receive an iPad that arrives all shiny and ready. That’s a sweet pill for the bookish or tech‑savvy, and the publisher isn’t shy about throwing a $4.4 million budget into the mix.
How it’s Getting the iPads in Your Hands
- Home‑grown workshops: One‑on‑one sessions at your doorstep, a bustling community center, or even a hotel conference room. No, we’re not turning your living room into a classroom (unless you’re into that vibe).
- Marketing that won’t scream: Think subtle hand‑to‑hand persuasion rather than a “Buy Now!” barrage. The idea is to let folks discover the power of the device while keeping the tone relaxed.
- Training that actually helps you: From turning off the auto‑save hassle to mastering the Magic Keyboard, every tech hurdle gets a friendly crack at it.
Why a Digital Companion Matters
The free e‑book version isn’t just a trimmed‑down paperback. It’s packed with:
- Text‑to‑speech wizardry: Have the stories read to you while you’re jogging or doing laundry.
- Video extras: Interviews, behind‑the‑scenes footage, and even visual quizzes to keep the mind working.
- High‑res image galleries: Think of them as a virtual art show, but with fewer glass cases and more pixels.
- And a bunch of other goodies that only come in the digital moon‑lit edition.
Looking After the Wallet (and your wrists)
Admittedly, $34 a month sounds hefty, but at the end of the day, you’re paying for a lifestyle upgrade. If you’re your own publisher’s fan‑fare, the wizard perks come together to feel worth every penny.
