Presented by Smucker’s, a leading marketer and manufacturer of consumer food and beverage products and pet food and pet snacks in North America, the app connects fans to Team USA athletes through stories, photos, videos and social media integration, it is claimed.

"We are always exploring ways to better serve our fans, and with the help of Smucker’s, we have expanded our digital presence with even more compelling content with the Team USA App," said Lisa Baird, the USOC chief marketing officer.

"For the first time, this new Team USA App is launching nearly a year before the Games, taking fans along on the Road to Rio, from the exciting lead up as athletes contend to qualify for Team USA to the exhilarating finale at the 2016 Games.

"This app provides the ultimate inside look at the inspiring journeys of America’s athletes."

During Rio 2016, the app will incorporate the latest breaking news, features, photos and videos on Team USA.

Content will include extensive athlete bio information, as well as a real-time Rio results tracker from all Team USA events at the Games.

Other features include live streaming of National Governing Body sporting events and Team USA special events, and a video-on-demand library of original Team USA programming, showing highlights and behind-the-scenes training, workout videos, nutritional features, historic moments in Olympic history and in-depth athlete profiles.

Users will also be able to customise their home screen and push notifications allowing them to follow their favourite athletes, teams or events, and follow links to support Team USA through donation opportunities or by purchasing official Team USA apparel.

Prior to the Games, the app will also provide breaking news alerts as athletes qualify. 

"Smucker’s is proud to help introduce fans to the inspirational stories of our Team USA athletes as they strive to compete in the Rio 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games," said Maribeth Burns, vice-president of corporate communications for The J.M. Smucker Company.

"The Team USA App brings the excitement of the Games to you as we celebrate and share in the many special moments of our athletes throughout their journeys."

For more information and to download the app, which is available for free on Android and iOS platforms, click here.