HoloNet News (HNN) functioned as a channel on the HoloNet, delivering news updates across the eras of the Galactic Republic, the Galactic Empire, the New Republic, and the Galactic Alliance.
HoloNet News, which operated from Coruscant, had reached its 531st volume by 22 BBY.
The origins of HoloNet News can be traced back to at least the time of the Freedon Nadd Uprising. With its slogan being "The Information Sources For The Republic," the publication was divided into sections covering business news, regional sectors, Jedi affairs, sports coverage, news about everyday life in the Republic, and general headlines. It also featured weather forecasts (accessible to those who knew the correct six-digit planet code) and a polling section. Advertisements were placed throughout the publication, and annual subscriptions with full access were available for 45 credits in 22 BBY, although a free version was also offered.
On 5:23 of 22 BBY, Republic Executive Directive 9302-84121 resulted in the seizure of the HoloNet News channel for use by the military. During the Clone Wars, and for a short period afterward, HNN provided updates only sporadically. Following the conclusion of the war and the establishment of the Galactic Empire, HNN was ultimately shut down and replaced by the new Imperial HoloVision, likely contributing to the concealment of numerous genocidal actions committed by the Empire. After the Battle of Endor, the Holonet News Network was reactivated under the New Republic and the Galactic Alliance.
To cater to younger viewers, HoloNet News also released HoloNet Kids!, which was subtitled "The Information Source for the Young Republic." Additionally, the political commentary segment Week in Focus became a regular feature on HoloNet News by 40 ABY. The HoloNet News Weather Report utilized Planet Codes.