New version works decently once you get used to the new layout.
I had a good email exchange with the developer and am convinced he is making every effort to improve Pocket Universe and make it more enjoyable to use. Much to his credit, John responded very quickly to my initial review.
Not very user friendly
I prefer the older version, this version is not easy to configure, it is not intuitive.
Ruined
You have ruined a good app. Will delete.
Still great
I’ve had this app since the iPhone 3GS. It has been updated many times over the past decade and still is great.
My “go to” astronomy app.
The only request: it should play nicer with accessibility display settings, including the “zoomed” view.
My “go to” astronomy app.
The only request: it should play nicer with accessibility display settings, including the “zoomed” view.
Best sky app
Has an answer for all kinds of vewing and fun to use. Wish it could sync with the Apple Watch
How did it go so wrong
The original pocket universe took the world by storm. I had it and we used it every time we went camping.
So while away this Easter holiday I went looking for the original app and it’s gone. So downloaded this version and it’s lost its way.
All I wanted to do was aim my camera at the night sky and find out what the kids and I could see, it’s the one premise of the app, and somehow the one thing it no longer does intuitively.
Spent 20 mins trying to figure it out before deleting it.
So while away this Easter holiday I went looking for the original app and it’s gone. So downloaded this version and it’s lost its way.
All I wanted to do was aim my camera at the night sky and find out what the kids and I could see, it’s the one premise of the app, and somehow the one thing it no longer does intuitively.
Spent 20 mins trying to figure it out before deleting it.
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New UI is rubbish
I really hate this re Ui. I deleted the app and got Stellarium instead.
Why did you change everything?
I used to love this app and used it forever! But they completely changed everything and it’s awful!
Dead menus
Search menus are dead
Pocket Universe review
I’m sorry I really don’t like the new one. It’s way too sophisticated. The old Pocket Universe was like a plug in play point. Everything was there. I guess it’s just me. It looks cool. Looks great but it’s not working for me. I’m sorry.
Very neat!
Just found this app and I am really enjoying it so far! A lot of features but it's not overwhelming to get started. But I love it so far.
Poor visual experience
I was shocked to see this new version and the drastic change when the previous versions were perfect.
Some of the earlier versions could have used minor settings changes but not the main visual effects. Please go back to the earlier design.
Some of the earlier versions could have used minor settings changes but not the main visual effects. Please go back to the earlier design.
Completely ruined
An utter disgrace. Completely destroyed what was a perfect app it is now unusable
An indispensable app
A stunning tour of the wonders of the universe, few apps are this good. Great for helping to explain astronomy, and get children interested!
Disappointing
I’ve been using the original Pocket Universe for years, but I’m disappointed with the new version. How can a night sky guide omit reference and searchability for our closest neighbour - the Alpha Centauri group now called Rigil Kentaurus. The group (appearing as a single point of light) are clearly visible in Australian skies, but it doesn’t even show up in any mode. Seriously? Does the southern hemisphere even exist for this app?? My other complaint is that in motion mode at near vertical azimuth the sky jumps around as the phone is moved.
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So useful!
I bought this app almost 17 years ago, probably the best long term app value for a paid app I’ve bought in the 18 years since I got my first iPhone at Australian launch.
It’s phenomenal not only when I’m in a dark skies area at night to use Motion to see “what’s up there”, but I also find the ability to track the sun’s path useful on hot sunny days!
I bought v1.7.1 – John has recently released 20.1: there are few indie developers with such dedication to their customers.
It’s phenomenal not only when I’m in a dark skies area at night to use Motion to see “what’s up there”, but I also find the ability to track the sun’s path useful on hot sunny days!
I bought v1.7.1 – John has recently released 20.1: there are few indie developers with such dedication to their customers.
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Exceptional Astronomy App
I am no expert but I am a huge space and astronomy enthusiast. One of my really good friends is an Astro physicist and professor and he has taught me a fair bit over the years. I love being able to take this app out and share with friends or family various things I have learned from him. This app is incredibly easy to use and very helpful in finding whatever information you are looking for as it relates to the sky. The interactive map that let you point the camera at the sky to find planets and stars is very cool. Great app I would recommend to anyone interested in space whether a beginner or expert. I would buy this app again.
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Update terrible
What was once a very good tool is now worthless. You used to be able to adjust the amount of visible stars based on their magnitude. That is gone. I have deleted app.
Recent updates confusing
Recent updates confusing - can’t see star strength, can’t go back to original views.
Update is delete worthy
Terrible. The original app was always a 10. Had so many great features that everybody else screwed up. This app with the update is now just like every other terrible astronomy app out there. Doesn’t immediately show you what’s up. Doesn’t have an easy to find night mode. Doesn’t show objects based on brightness or identify brightness when putting the cursor over it so as to know if you can see it with the naked eye or a telescope! Time to delete and fine a new one that doesn’t suck.
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