This is the most accurate weather app for Android and it isn’t from Google

If you use the Google Weather app for Android, you may have noticed a change in its behavior. Rather than opening the app, it now directs you towards Search results for weather.

While this change is still rolling out, many users have reported this new behavior, indicating that Google is on the brink of shutting it down for good.

Pixel users need not worry, the Pixel Weather app is a different beast that’s here to stay (and still receiving updates), but users of the Google Weather app on other Android phones will want to find a replacement if the Search results aren’t providing enough detail.

Every Android phone comes with some sort of weather app preinstalled, but they range in quality from adequate to excellent.

So in light of Google Weather’s imminent shutdown, here’s how to find a new weather app for your phone.

Know where your weather app is pulling its data from

Forecasters interpret the same data in different ways

Most weather apps do not collate their own meteorological data. Google, for example, pulls the data for the Pixel Weather app from sources across the globe, including the National Weather Service and the Met Office.

When choosing a new weather app, take a careful look at where it is pulling data from.

However, in the US, almost all data is sourced from the National Weather Service (NWS), part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This data is provided for free, and companies use weather modeling to make predictions based on this data.

Google does not let you choose the source of your data, as it has its own forecasting model exclusive to its weather reports. However, if you can choose the source of your data, we recommend choosing The Weather Channel.

In a two-week study conducted by the University of Reading’s Department of Meteorology and ForecastWatch’s 2021-2024 Weather Forecast Accuracy Overview report, the Weather Channel was identified as the most accurate forecaster overall.

This forecaster provides its data to other apps, but conveniently has its own app.

The Weather Channel uses data from multiple sources, including the NWS. This tends to be the case for most weather apps, as they utilize tools like AI models to make predictions.

The Weather Channel offers the most accurate predictions and has its own app, so we recommend choosing this app. However, there are alternative apps you should consider.

Choosing the right app to read the weather

More data isn’t always better

While the Weather Channel has the most accurate predictions, it may not be the best app for you.

For example, while Pixel Weather is not accurate enough for critical decisions, its easy-to-read UI makes it perfect for getting a rough idea of the weather.

AccuWeather, cited as the second most accurate forecaster in the University of Reading report, is often listed in “best weather apps” lists.

However, there has been a rise in complaints about its forecasting accuracy, and it is involved with lobbying attempts to shut down the NWS and commercialize its forecasts. Therefore, it should be avoided.

A small but popular forecasting app, EverythingWeather, is ideal if you care about the raw data behind your weather reports. It pulls data straight from the NWS and displays it in an impressively readable UI, considering how much data it throws at you.

However, it’s only available in the US, and the amount of data is unnecessary if you aren’t planning on critical outdoor operations.

The Weather Channel’s app is ideal as its home screen gives a quick overview of everything you need to know for the day, including what the temperature feels like, wind speeds, and a brief outlook.

However, it displays ads, and to unlock advanced features like a 15-minute forecast, you must subscribe. But just like EverythingWeather, you don’t need a subscription for your day-to-day forecasting needs.

Google may still have a leg up on the competition

There’s a lot of potential for AI in weather forecasting

Pixel users may be sitting smug in the knowledge that their weather app isn’t going away.

Sure, its AI reports are borderline useless. Mine currently tells me that it is a “chilly, cloudy morning.” I’ve attached a picture of my view to illustrate how pointless this “report” is.

However, its fantastic UI is perfect for getting a quick overview of what you can roughly expect from the day. And thanks to AI, it has the potential to be more accurate than ever.

Thanks Google…

Raw data is all well and good, but it’s the analysis of this data that creates the weather reports we rely on.

Google launched a new AI model, WeatherNext 2, last year, which managed to score as the leading model for tracking all 13 storms in the hurricane season. Nevertheless, these forecasts rely on AI, which is prone to hallucinations.

How to predict the weather on your phone

If we had to recommend one weather app, it would be The Weather Channel. It offers consistently accurate weather reports, has an easy-to-understand daily weather report, and there’s plenty of information for those obsessed with the data behind the reports.

Nevertheless, it’s still worth keeping an eye on Google’s AI predictions, as well as EverythingWeather’s wealth of forecasting information.

But we can safely say, no matter which app you settle for, avoid AccuWeather at all costs.