Software engineers develop eisteddfod iPhone app

Edryd Sharp and Ambrose Choy developed the app for the eisteddfod

Visitors to this year's eisteddfod will be able to download a gadget with all the details about the event to their iPhones.

The venture is the idea of two software designers from Llanberis, Gwynedd, and has the backing of organisers.

The iSteddfod is the first application for Welsh speakers created for the Apple iPhone.

The gadget contains a detailed map of the Maes, as well as times and locations for events.

It was developed by computer programmer Ambrose Choy and graphic designer Edryd Sharp.

The iSteddfod app contains a detailed map of the Maes

The week-long festival is held in August in Ebbw Vale, Blaenau Gwent, but the app is already available to download using the latest technology.

Mr Sharp said: "It's bilingual so is available in Welsh and English for all families going to the eisteddfod and all competitors to use.

"It's not intended to replace the printed programme but is something portable for people to have in their pockets on the day so they can see what's on."

The iSteddfod will contain an A-Z of every exhibitor, a search feature and users will be able to link it to their Facebook and Twitter accounts.

How the iSteddfod application appears on the iPhone screen

Mr Sharp said he and schoolfriend Mr Choy had both taken part in the creative aspect of the eisteddfod as school children.

They plan to continually update the gadget so newer versions will be available in the future and users will be able to suggest what they want to see added.

Mr Choy added: "I've always been a great fan of the National Eisteddfod, but always felt that there wasn't an easy way of accessing all the information in one place when you're on the move.

"We're excited that we've managed to pull off such a unique project in Welsh, and look forward to seeing many more Welsh language apps coming through over the next few months."

Eisteddfod Chief Executive Elfed Roberts said the app was a huge boost for the festival and the Welsh language: "iSteddfod will be a great tool for our visitors, both during the festival itself and during the next few weeks as people start planning their visit.

"This app makes the eisteddfod relevant to a technology savvy generation.

"It's great to see the language being used in cutting-edge technology and I am delighted that the iSteddfod is the first of its kind, and look forward to working with the developers over the next few years."

The Blaenau Gwent and Heads of the Valleys National Eisteddfod is held at The Works, Ebbw Vale, from 31 July - 7 August.