Browser Compatibility Issue: Current Browser Not Supported

In a move to enhance user experience, Cincinnati.com has announced updates to its website technology that may affect some visitors using older web browsers. The local news outlet, which serves the Greater Cincinnati metropolitan area, is implementing technical changes aimed at delivering faster loading times and improved navigation.

According to a notification on the site, Cincinnati.com has rebuilt its digital platform “to take advantage of the latest technology,” with the stated goals of making the website faster and more user-friendly. However, these improvements come with compatibility requirements that exclude certain web browsers from accessing the full site experience.

The media company, owned by Gannett Co., Inc. – one of the nation’s largest newspaper publishers – is following an industry-wide trend of optimizing digital platforms for modern browsing technologies. This approach allows news organizations to implement more sophisticated features, responsive designs, and multimedia capabilities that today’s news consumers expect.

Digital media analysts note that such technological upgrades are becoming increasingly common among legacy news organizations as they compete with digital-native outlets. Modernized platforms enable more effective content delivery and create opportunities for enhanced advertising integration, both critical revenue streams for news publications facing challenging economic conditions.

“News websites are constantly balancing accessibility with innovation,” explains Dr. Elaine Chen, digital media professor at the University of Cincinnati. “While they want to reach the broadest possible audience, they also need to leverage current web technologies to deliver the kind of immersive, multimedia experiences that keep readers engaged.”

The Cincinnati.com notice indicates that users with unsupported browsers are being encouraged to download and install newer browser alternatives. This approach reflects the practical reality that maintaining compatibility with outdated browsers requires significant development resources and can limit the implementation of new features.

Current industry standards typically support recent versions of major browsers including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari, and Microsoft Edge. Older browsers, particularly Internet Explorer, which Microsoft officially retired in June 2022, are increasingly being phased out of support by major websites.

For residents of Cincinnati and the surrounding Tri-State area who rely on Cincinnati.com for local news, sports coverage, and information about community events, this update may require action if they’re using older technology. The site serves as the online presence for The Cincinnati Enquirer, a publication with roots dating back to 1841 and a significant role in the region’s media landscape.

Local technology assistance programs, often available through public libraries and community centers throughout Hamilton County, offer resources for residents who may need help updating their browsing software. The Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County provides free computer access and basic technology assistance at many branches.

Website modernization efforts like this reflect broader digital transformation initiatives across the media industry, as publications adapt to changing consumer habits and technological capabilities. While such updates can temporarily inconvenience some users, they typically result in improved experiences for the majority of visitors once implemented.

Cincinnati.com has not specified which browsers are no longer supported or provided a timeline for when the changes will be fully implemented. Users experiencing difficulties accessing the site are directed to download a newer browser to restore full functionality.

For residents of the Cincinnati area, maintaining access to local news sources remains important for staying informed about community developments, local government activities, and regional events that may not receive coverage from national news outlets.