aNewDomain – The tech world went into a panic on March 13, when Google announced the shutdown of Google Reader, effective July 1. Once the shock wears off, you may want to migrate your RSS feeds to a new reader before Google turns the lights out on the Reader. Here are some options.
Digg/Betaworks
One of the most promising alternatives doesn’t even exist yet. The day after Google’s announcement, Digg said that it is working on a new reader, and will push to get it out as soon as possible. Betaworks, the company that purchased and relaunched Digg in August 2012, has plenty of experience in quickly launching popular, quality apps and services.
Feedly
Web-based reader Feedly offers a feature that many Google Reader users will find compelling: A seamless, behind-the-scenes transition of all your feeds when Reader shuts down. Unlike Reader’s sparse design, Feedly is more design-centric, offering a more visually appealing layout. Feedly has mobile apps for both Android and Apple iOS devices.
Netvibes
Netvibes is also a web-based reader. In addition to RSS feeds, you can install pre-populated widgets. In reader mode, the design and functionality of Netvibes is close enough to that of Google Reader, so users can transition comfortably to Netvibes.
Other web-based services include Newsblur, a paid service with several features and options, and Pulse, a visually driven reader with complementary mobile apps. If you are looking for a mobile-only experience, the extremely popular Flipboard is a solid choice.
If you prefer to download a client to your computer instead of relying on Web-based services, Reeder for Mac and FeedDemon for Windows are both feature-rich options. Note that FeedDemon will be closing soon as well, so grab a copy of the software before it is no longer available. Additionally, Microsoft’s venerable Outlook still supports RSS feeds.
Based in Ann Arbor Michigan, Mike Olsen, is a tech enthusiast, freelance writer and a senior contributor to aNewDoman.net. Follow his stream on Google+ and email him at MikeO@aNewDomain.net.
