The Weather Channel - Radar

What is The Weather Channel - Radar?

The Weather Channel - Radar is a weather app for Android phones, published by The Weather Channel. It brings current conditions, short-term and extended forecasts, and radar maps into one place so people can check what the sky is doing before they head out.

The app is listed on Google Play in the Weather category and is free to download. Version 16.26.0 is the current release, and the store listing shows more than 150 million installs.

How does the radar and forecast work?

The radar view is the app's most visible feature. It displays precipitation and storm movement on a map so users can see whether rain or snow is approaching their area.

Forecasts cover the current hour, the coming days, and the wider outlook. Users can add locations so they can check weather in more than one place, such as home, work, or a relative's city.

What's new in version 16.26.0?

The latest update focuses on the radar, with several improvements to how maps display weather data. It also includes general performance work and bug fixes.

The developer has not made large, headline-level changes public in this release, so the update is best described as refinement rather than a redesign. Users who notice problems can contact the developer's support address listed on the store page.

Requirements, size, and cost

The app needs Android 9 or later. Check your device version under system settings before installing if you use an older phone or tablet.

The app is free to download from Google Play. It contains ads, and it offers in-app purchases, so some features or ad-free use may require paying. The last update on the store page is dated 2026-10-22.

Pros and cons

On the plus side, the app is free, widely installed, and rated 4.6 out of 5 from more than 3.6 million ratings on Google Play. Radar and alerts are the main draws for people who want to track storms.

On the downside, ads appear in the free version, and in-app purchases may push users toward paid options. Like most weather apps that rely on live maps and background updates, it can use battery and data, and it works best with a steady connection.

Who is this app for?

The app suits anyone who wants a general-purpose weather app with strong radar tools, including commuters, outdoor workers, and people who live in storm-prone areas.

Users who dislike ads or prefer a minimal, offline-first tool may want to compare other options before committing.