Current is a new RSS reader that’s more like a river than an inbox

Introducing Current, an innovative application that is redefining the RSS reader experience. Unlike traditional readers that feel more like a chore, Current aims to create a fluid reading environment, likened to a serene stream of news. This approach could make it easier for casual readers and those not reliant on news for work to engage with information in a more enjoyable way. Terry Godier, the mind behind Current, shared that his motivation stemmed from a common frustration with typical RSS feeds resembling email inboxes. He noted, "When you return to a feed reader after a break, the guilt of unread items can be overwhelming." Godier explained that the visual cues of unread counts and bolded texts, which signify emails waiting for responses, bring unnecessary anxiety when applied to RSS feeds, which should be about enjoyment rather than obligation. For those unfamiliar, RSS, or Really Simple Syndication, allows users to receive updated content from various websites in a structured format. While RSS gained immense popularity in the early 2000s, its usage dwindled as social media platforms like Twitter took precedence for real-time updates. Despite the decline of Google Reader in 2013, the RSS format remains robust, serving as the backbone for many podcasts and news syndication apps like Feedly and Inoreader. Current’s unique design shifts away from the conventional list format. Its main interface resembles a river, where content flows and gradually diminishes. Godier emphasizes that this design allows users to experience news differently: "Content arrives, lingers for a time, and then fades away," providing a natural rhythm to information consumption. Breaking news will stay prominent for three hours, while daily articles linger for 18 hours, and evergreen content remains accessible for up to a week. The app encourages a more relaxed reading experience. Users can choose one of five speeds for each content source, including options for breaking news and tutorials. Instead of marking articles as read, users simply swipe them off the screen or tap a release button, freeing them from the pressure of managing unread counts. Current also integrates several exciting features aimed at enhancing the RSS experience. It can retrieve full text from articles even if publishers truncate their feeds, and it allows users to mute sources or pin essential ones at the top of their river. Additionally, the app learns user preferences, suggesting feeds to mute or pin based on reading habits. A standout feature is the ability to follow individual writers through a section called Voices, which separates personal blogs and newsletters from larger publication feeds. This functionality allows users to dive deeper into the content created by specific authors, enriching their reading experience. Godier's commitment to personalizing the news landscape is evident in Current's design, which includes customizable currents and categories, enhancing how users experience and interact with news. Current is available for a one-time fee of $9.99 on the Apple App Store, with no hidden costs or subscriptions. A web version is expected to launch soon, promising to expand its appeal even further.