Global internet shutdowns and growing government control have made access to free information increasingly difficult in countries such as Iran, Russia and China. DW Access addresses this challenge with features that allow users to bypass censorship and stay informed.

"DW is blazing new trails in censorship circumvention. DW Access ensures our audiences can access independent news wherever they are – even under the most challenging conditions," says Guido Baumhauer, Managing Director Distribution, Marketing and Technology at DW.

Unlike most apps today, DW Access is not available in app stores. Users can download it via the dedicated DW platform www.access-unlocked.org

or share it directly via messenger services or Bluetooth. This approach not only ensures independence from major tech companies, it also reduces exposure to government restrictions.

The app includes:

• Integrated VPN (Outline) for secure access
• No personal data transmission for user safety
• Offline functionality with pre-cached content and article sharing via Bluetooth
• Data-saving mode for regions with limited network connectivity