-By Mike Shields

The broadcast networks are dialing up their collective presence on the iPhone.

On Thursday (Oct. 15) ABC launched a free application for its smash hit Dancing With The Stars, which fans can use to vote each week for their favorite celebrity dance contestants. Plus, besides the usual show highlights, photos and games, the app serves as a personal dance instructor for users, providing step by step instructions on dances like the Mambo or Tango.

ABC has not announced any sponsors for the free Dancing App.

Meanwhile, earlier this week the CW Network rolled out two apps for both the iPhone and iTouch devices, including an app which helps fans of the shows Gossip Girl, 90210 and Melrose Place locate real world locations (restaurants, bars, etc) featured in those dramas, which are set in New York, Beverly Hills and Hollywood respectively. That app, dubbed CW City Wize, is being sponsored by Target.

In addition The CW has launched a more general CWTV app which will serve primarily as a promotional vehicle for its shows—featuring episode recaps, preview clips and the like. That app also links directly to iTunes, enabling users to purchase full episodes of shows like The Vampire Diaries, America’s Next Top Model and Supernatural.
 
Lastly, CBS on Thursday debuted a new app for CBS News which is available on Apple’s iPhone and iTouch as well as Blackberry devices. That free app offers breaking news and video clips from CBSNews.com. But it’s most distinctive feature may be its use of Twitter; users will be able to view Twitter feeds from over 40 CS news reporters as well as Twitter feeds from CBSNews.com users from all over the globe.

Users will also be able to view full episodes of several original CBS News Web series, including The Tomorrow Show, Washington Unplugged and Doc Dot Com. CBS has yet to announce any advertisers for the new app.