What's Happening?
A new application called Current is redefining the traditional RSS reader experience by presenting news in a more fluid and less task-oriented manner. Developed by Terry Godier, Current aims to alleviate the anxiety often associated with unread counts in traditional RSS readers, which resemble email inboxes. The app presents news as a 'river,' where content flows in and out without the pressure of marking items as read. This approach allows users to engage with news at their own pace, with content fading away over time based on its nature—breaking news remains visible for a few hours, while evergreen content lingers longer. Current also includes features like fetching full article texts, muting sources temporarily, and following individual writers
through a feature called 'Voices.' The app is available for a one-time purchase on Apple's App Store, with no additional in-app purchases or subscriptions.
Why It's Important?
Current's innovative approach to RSS reading could significantly impact how users consume news, particularly for those who find traditional methods overwhelming. By removing the pressure of unread counts, Current may attract a broader audience, including casual news readers who previously avoided RSS due to its inbox-like structure. This could lead to a resurgence in the popularity of RSS feeds, offering an alternative to social media platforms like Twitter for real-time news consumption. Additionally, the app's focus on individual writers through the 'Voices' feature highlights a shift towards personalized content consumption, which could influence how news is curated and delivered in the future. The app's design and functionality may set a new standard for digital news consumption, emphasizing user experience and mental well-being.
What's Next?
As Current gains traction, it may inspire other developers to rethink the design and functionality of news aggregation tools. The app's success could lead to further innovations in how digital content is presented, potentially influencing the broader media landscape. Additionally, the introduction of a web version of Current could expand its user base beyond Apple device owners, increasing its impact. The app's unique features, such as the ability to follow individual writers, may encourage more content creators to offer personalized RSS feeds, further diversifying the types of content available to users. As the app evolves, it may also integrate additional features based on user feedback, enhancing its appeal and functionality.
