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The complete works of Robert Burns have been made available free of charge on the iPhone for the first time.

The new iPhone application will allow enthusiasts around the world to download and instantly access Burns' poetry.

The app includes a searchable database of every poem written by Burns, a summary of facts about the poet's life and a guide to hosting a Burns supper.

The text-based app has been developed by the Scottish government.

Culture Minister Fiona Hyslop said: "Robert Burns is Scotland's greatest cultural icon, recognised and celebrated all around the world. His legacy is of incalculable value to Scotland and the country's image abroad.

"This app uses the very latest technology to bring Burns firmly into the 21st Century, with his enduring messages of human equality and international brotherhood now available to iPhone users the world over."

The Scottish government confirmed that if the new application proved to be a success, it would consider rolling it out across other mobile platforms.

The launch of the app comes ahead of the opening of the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum on Friday.