The Society of Publication Designers has released an iPad app as “an enhanced companion” to its annual design competition book.

The app, SPD 45, allows users to browse an international collection of over 600 covers and inside pages from magazines recognized as having the best editorial design, photography and illustration in print and digital.

From Joe Zeff Design:

Every winner gets full-screen treatment, then pivots out of the way to reveal a detailed listing that includes the publication, individuals and themes. Tap on any of the keywords to quickly see other entries like it, represented in a clever visual index that spans the top of the screen.

From The Magaziner:

The app really does keep things simple, and the interface is entirely composed of a grid of images that represent the projects, with a nav bar on top. Touch the image and you bring up a series of spreads for the work.

The app also features the Magazine of the Year winner and finalists, the winners of the 2009 SPOTS illustration competition, and the winners of the SPD Student Design and Photo Competition.