The RSS format (RDF Site Summary or Really Simple Syndication) might be considered as an “antiquated” web standard for most users, but it hasn’t completely died just yet.
Despite its old origins, RSS offers a lot more control by allowing you to choose what your want to read or see. A long way from the modern AI-powered algorithms serving us content on a daily basis.
If an RSS reader app for your Linux computer is what you’re after, then you can definitely give NewsFlash a chance.
Here’s what you need to know about NewsFlash
NewsFlash is the spiritual successor of a very popular RSS reader called FeedReader. Even though it’s an entirely new app, with a new codebase, NewsFlash continues the legacy by offering a modern modern look and a broader spectrum of useful features.
NewsFlash can synchronize and is compatible with various RSS feed services such as Feedbin, Feedly, Inoreader, NewsBlur, etc. One of the best aspects of the app is that it can also be used as a local RSS feed reader, perfect for users who don’t have accounts/subscriptions on web-based RSS services.
The GUI is modern, even though on the simplistic side of things, and looks rather at home on modern versions of GNOME. There are a wide range of settings to experiment with, including a various themes, various article views, and so forth.
Of course, there are various ways of sorting articles as well, as well as various ways to add custom tags, export articles, and adjust other GUI and reader-related elements.
Not perfect, but definitely worth a try
In terms of basic functionality, looks, and configuration, there’s not much to dislike. Overall, NewsFlash is a very good, little RSS desktop reader.
However, there are various aspects that some users might find a bit annoying, for example, the way NewsFlash displays articles. Because the app uses its own built-in scraper to fetch the content, the articles are not displayed with all their elements such as images, boxes, image galleries, theme buttons, and so forth.
