The State Council app, a new online application that allows users to keep up to date with the decisions, policies and activities of the State Council, has earned a 4.5-star rating out of a maximum five at the Apple shop.

An editor working for the app that was only launched in late February, said its popularity even surprised the team that worked on it - it was ranked third out of all free Chinese news apps at the Apple shop on just the third day after its debut on Feb 26.

The app, which is managed by the General Office of the State Council with technological support from China Daily, publicizes the major decisions of the State Council, policy documents and the activities of senior State Council officials.

On Wednesday, the app issued the audio and a full transcript of Premier Li Keqiang's annual news conference.

The State Council website said the launch of the app reflects the government's determination to be innovative in releasing information and also highlights its aim to get the public involved in the government's decision-making process.

The app lets users offer suggestions on government work and allows feedback on policy drafts.

"Finally, I have found a serious place to read news. Now, various policies and top news items about the government can reach us in a timely manner and we can also check official figures in professional reports here," wrote a user who used the name "starry sky". "I give my thumb-ups to the government for its strong confidence and working style in getting close to the people."

A survey carried out by the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences said 90.6 percent of Internet users had a positive view of the app.

Guangdong-based Nanfang Metropolis Daily said the central government's choice of using new technology and a new platform can be seen as a mark of its resolution to "develop with the times".

An editorial issued by Sohu.com, a major Chinese news portal, said the app is an important step in promoting transparency in government affairs and allows the sharing of complete policies.

The English-language mobile app is scheduled to come out later this year.

Zhang Yue contributed to this story.

lixiaokun@chinadaily.com.cn

(China Daily 03/17/2016 page4)