Yesterday, after eight years, Google closed the doors on Google Reader. The world’s most popular RSS aggregator now no longer works, and Google will delete all data from Google Reader in a couple of weeks.
You have until the 15th of July to get your data out of Google Reader. After that, you will no longer be able to export your data and RSS feeds using Google’s Takeout tool.
All Google Reader subscription data (e.g., lists of people that you follow, items you have starred, notes you have created, etc.) will be systematically deleted from Google servers. You can download a copy of your Google Reader data via Google Takeout until 12PM PST July 15, 2013.
You can find out more details on how to retrieve your Google Reader data before the 15th of July over at the Google Reader Blog.
The Impact of Google Reader’s Shutdown
The shutdown of Google Reader marks the end of an era for many users who relied on the service to keep up with their favorite websites and blogs. Google Reader was more than just an RSS aggregator; it was a tool that helped users manage and streamline their online reading habits. For many, it was the go-to platform for staying informed about the latest news and trends in various fields.
The decision to shut down Google Reader was met with significant backlash from its dedicated user base. Many users expressed their disappointment and frustration on social media and various online forums. The primary reason cited by Google for the shutdown was the declining usage of the service. However, this explanation did little to appease the loyal users who had come to depend on Google Reader for their daily dose of information.
Alternatives to Google Reader
With the closure of Google Reader, users are now on the lookout for alternative RSS aggregators to fill the void. Fortunately, there are several options available that offer similar functionalities. Some of the most popular alternatives include:
1. Feedly: Feedly has emerged as one of the top alternatives to Google Reader. It offers a clean and intuitive interface, making it easy for users to transition from Google Reader. Feedly also provides various customization options, allowing users to organize their feeds according to their preferences.
2. Inoreader: Inoreader is another powerful RSS aggregator that offers a range of features, including offline reading, advanced search capabilities, and social media integration. It also supports importing data from Google Reader, making the transition process seamless for former Google Reader users.
3. The Old Reader: As the name suggests, The Old Reader aims to replicate the look and feel of the original Google Reader. It offers a simple and straightforward interface, making it a popular choice among users who preferred the minimalist design of Google Reader.
4. NewsBlur: NewsBlur is a feature-rich RSS aggregator that offers both free and premium plans. It provides various customization options, including the ability to train the algorithm to prioritize certain types of content. NewsBlur also supports importing data from Google Reader, making it a viable alternative for former users.
5. Flipboard: Flipboard takes a different approach to RSS aggregation by presenting content in a visually appealing magazine-style format. It allows users to create personalized magazines based on their interests, making it a unique alternative to traditional RSS aggregators.
In conclusion, while the shutdown of Google Reader is undoubtedly a significant loss for its dedicated user base, there are several alternatives available that can help fill the void. Users are encouraged to explore these options and find the one that best suits their needs. Additionally, it is crucial to export your Google Reader data before the 15th of July to ensure that you do not lose any valuable information. For more details on how to retrieve your data, visit the Google Reader Blog.
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