The Stanford Mobile app, previously named iStanford, relaunched on Nov. 15 after a two-year absence. The earlier version of the app was taken down in 2013 due to negative response from students.

During the hiatus, the responsibility for app development and maintenance was transferred from the Registrar’s Office to the Office of University Communications.

Scott Stocker ’90, senior director of web communications, commented on the new and improved functionality of the app. Since it only had a “soft” launch before Thanksgiving break, most students approached by The Daily were still not aware of the application as it has not yet been publicized.

“A major feature we introduced is the new dining module, which allows students to check for places to eat around campus, along with their menus and opening hours,” said Stocker. “Also, it is now compatible with Android phones to increase accessibility.”

The app team is also working to allow for SUID logins in the app to create a personalized experience. Further, integration with Canvas and Axess is on the table, in order to allow students to enroll in and drop classes directly through Stanford Mobile.

Expansion of its functionality is still underway, fueled by the office’s recent association with Modo Labs, a company also providing a specialized “higher ed” mobile platform to several peer schools. Other than potential integration with Canvas and Axess, Stocker mentioned plans to improve the current map experience for visitors and students alike, provide a live tracking for the Marguerite shuttle system, and allow the AlertSU system to send push notifications through the application.

A collaboration between the University Registrar and Stanford Mobile might enable students to have mobile versions of their student ID cards accessible from the app as well. The app remains a work in progress, with scope for polishing current features as well as adding new ones.

Despite its recent launch and the lack of publicity, the app has still found traction with some users.

“The design of the user interface is much nicer [compared to iStanford], and the Marguerite shuttle schedule is quite convenient as well,” said Tyler Dao ’19, who has experience with both apps.

Stanford Mobile is currently available on the Google Play Store and the App Store. A desktop version can be found at m.stanford.edu.

Contact Surbhi Sachdeva at surbhi3 ‘at’ stanford.edu.