YouVersion launches Bible App Lite in markets with internet limitations

Following a successful pilot in Africa, the lite app launches in SE Asia

OKLAHOMA CITY (April 26, 2023)—More than 600 million people in Africa have smartphones, but many of these devices lack the memory and storage required to effectively use media rich apps. At the same time, most people in these emerging markets don’t have access to fast and affordable internet. In an effort to lower barriers to Scripture, YouVersion recently piloted Bible App Lite in Africa, and following its positive reception, is launching the simpler, space-saving app in SE Asia.

“We’re passionate about using technology to help people in every country of the world know God more,” said Bobby Gruenewald, YouVersion Founder and CEO. “We’re excited that this lite app is making it possible for people to engage with the Bible regardless of their internet or phone capabilities. We’re hearing from countless people how it’s helping them grow in their faith.”

Bible App Lite is available entirely offline and has all the key features of Bible App, including Verse of the Day,Audio Bibles, and Prayer. After launching in Oct. 2022 across Nigeria, Kenya, and Uganda, Bible App Lite launched throughout the rest of Africa on Christmas Eve. Since launching, Bible App Lite has reached the Google Play Store’s top 10 in 17 African countries. In fact, in Kenya, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the app has even reached the number one spot ahead of other popular apps like TikTok, Whats App, Facebook, and Instagram.

Amy from the YouVersion Community in Africa said, “This app brings me closer to God. I get Bible study lessons here so I understand more of His Word.”

Following the successful pilot in Africa, YouVersion recently launched Bible App Lite in SE Asia. To date, the app has seen a total of more than 4.1 million installs. In SE Asia, the app is currently available in India, Nepal,Pakistan, Myanmar, and Bangladesh with plans to expand to additional countries in the next few months. The YouVersion team continues to explore the need for Bible App Lite in other developing countries.

About YouVersion

Created by Life.Church, YouVersion designs biblically-centered experiences that encourage and challenge people to seek God throughout each day. Bible App offers a free Bible experience in more than 1,900 languages and has been installed on more than 565 million unique devices. Bible App Lite is a simple, space-saving app that is currently available in Africa and SE Asia as part of an effort to equip countries with internet limitations. Since its launch in October 2022, it has been installed on more than 4 million devices. bibleappforkids.com, which was developed in partnership with OneHope in 2013, helps children engage with the stories of the Bible through interactive animations and fun activities. It has been installed on more than 100 million unique devices. For more information about YouVersion, visit youversion.com.