Our web and mobile weather forecasting platform launches a new version focused on enhancing user experience.
Five years ago, we introduced Aphelion, our brand of weather prediction services, divided into various products such as Aphelion Wind (energy production forecasting software), Aphelion Logistics, and Aphelion Weather.
The latter, Aphelion Weather, is our web viewer and mobile app for weather prediction, fully developed in-house by SOLUTE. Since its launch in 2019, our active user base has been steadily growing, providing us with valuable feedback on aspects of the app that could be improved.
This new Version 3.1 of Aphelion Weather, now available on both the web and app, includes several updates. In this release, we focused on improving the user experience to optimize platform usability and better meet the priority needs identified by our users.
Here is a summary of the main updates and new features:
1. Aphelion WRF Model with 9km resolution
Weather models are the forecasting’s engine. We have introduced a new forecasting model in Aphelion, the Aphelion WRF, which was fully developed in-house and includes the following features:
- Four daily updates
- Improved wind gust forecasting
- Maximum forecast range of +84 hours
- Configured for early detection of high-impact storms
- Enhanced forecasting for intense precipitation events
- Detailed meteogram
This new Aphelion WRF model complements the existing GFS model available in Aphelion, providing a combined model that allows for precise and versatile forecastings.
GFS
APHELION WRF
Global model with a long forecast range:
- Global coverage
- 25 km resolution
- Long forecast range (+16 days)
Regional forecasting model specifically configured for conditions in the Iberian Peninsula:
- Regional coverage (more specific)
- 9 km resolution
- Early detection of conditions leading to storm formation
2. Auto-location search
A key need for users of this type of apps is to quickly check the weather in their city or favorite locations.
To enhance the user experience, we have introduced an intelligent location search feature that also allows you to save favorite locations (such as home, work, gym…) for instant access in less than 5 seconds.
3. Wind speed in m/s
Additionally, we’ve enabled the option to display wind speed variables in meters per second (m/s).
This new feature will be helpful for users who require greater precision, although the usual units (km/h, kt) remain available at all times.
You can change this setting in the options menu. Once selected and saved, the map, meteogram, and weather widget will display according to your preference.
4. Different time zones
In most weather forecasting apps and platforms, time offset is often overlooked when displaying various variables, which can lead to errors or confusion for the user. For instance, it might show rain at a specific hour but with a slight time discrepancy.
Now, Aphelion offers the option to change the time zone through the options menu, preventing any confusion from impacting your upcoming trip.
We hope you enjoy these new features! Don’t hesitate to reach out to us at aphelion.info@solute.es for any questions or suggestions!
