The Limpopo Mirror website now also has a Lite version that allows users to read articles even when they do not have an internet connection. The mobile site automatically downloads the latest articles whenever it is opened while connected to the internet and stores them for offline reading.
The full version of Limpopo Mirror’s new website was launched in February this year as a platform to experiment with new ideas and revenue models. It offers additional features such as a marketplace, extensive archives, a photo library and an AI assistant that helps registered users find information quickly.
The website also allows readers to support local journalism by subscribing or purchasing tokens. Tokens provide a pay-as-you-go option, with each token giving users unlimited access to the website for 48 hours.
The latest addition to the website is a mobile-friendly version that stores articles and images on a user's device for offline browsing. It includes all free-to-read content, such as news briefs, breaking news, sport and entertainment, as well as the latest available soccer league logs.
When users open the Lite site while connected to the internet, it downloads the latest 30 articles together with their accompanying images. Because it is optimised for mobile devices, it uses very little data. Users can therefore update the site whenever they have internet access, such as at work or at a public Wi-Fi hotspot. Later, whether travelling home by bus or taxi or when they no longer have internet access, the downloaded articles remain available to read.
The Lite site functions as a Progressive Web App (PWA), allowing users to install it on their phone without downloading anything from an app store. For the best experience, visit www.limpopomirror.co.za/m and add it to your Home Screen. The exact steps vary depending on the device and browser, but on most Android phones users can tap the three-dot menu in the top-right corner and select Add to Home Screen.
The Lite site is available free of charge. Users can also visit the full website, where premium articles and additional features are available.
The Limpopo Mirror website has experienced strong growth over the past month. During June, Google Analytics recorded 125,179 page views from 76,513 users. Particularly encouraging is that 70% of visitors accessed the website directly rather than through social media or other referral links. Limpopo Mirror stopped posting direct links on social media more than two years ago after Meta (Facebook) changed its algorithm, reducing the visibility of news publishers.
Another encouraging trend is the growing number of loyal readers, often referred to as “brand lovers”. More than 18,000 visitors are regular users who, on average, viewed 2.4 pages per visit.
Follow the link (also available as a QR code) to install the Limpopo Mirror Lite site and experience a faster, data-friendly way of staying up to date with local news.
Why use Limpopo Mirror Lite?
Works even without an internet connection.
* Uses very little mobile data.
* Can be installed like an app.
* Loads quickly on slower phones.
* Includes the latest local news, sport and league logs.