Current Aims to Revitalize RSS for the Modern Web

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  Published in Science and Technology on Thursday, February 19th 2026 at 11:08 GMT by TechCrunch
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Beyond the Inbox: Current Aims to Revitalize RSS in the Age of Algorithms

The RSS reader, once a staple for power users and information enthusiasts, has largely faded from prominence. Overtaken by the convenience - and often the chaos - of social media feeds, newsletters, and algorithmically curated content, many have questioned the relevance of manually subscribing to website updates. However, a new player, Current, is entering the arena with a bold proposition: to reimagine the RSS experience for the modern web, prioritizing calm, intentionality, and user privacy.

Launched with a focus on moving away from the inbox metaphor traditionally associated with RSS readers, Current presents information as a continuous "river" of content. This isn't simply a cosmetic change; it's a fundamental shift in how users interact with their subscribed feeds. The traditional RSS reader, often presenting articles as a list of unread items, can feel overwhelming and induce a sense of obligation to "clear the inbox." Current, by contrast, aims for a more passive and mindful experience. Users can dip into the flow of information when they are ready, rather than feeling pressured to keep up with a constantly growing list. This approach directly addresses a common complaint leveled at modern digital life - the feeling of being perpetually 'on' and bombarded with information.

"We wanted to create something that felt less overwhelming," explains Krishna Ramachandran, founder and CEO of Current. "RSS readers have traditionally felt like inboxes, and inboxes are stressful. We wanted to make it more like a river - a flow of information that you can dip into when you're ready." This philosophy is baked into the app's design and functionality. Beyond the 'river' interface, Current offers organizational features like tagging and "islands" - customizable groupings of feeds. This allows users to curate their information streams, creating dedicated spaces for news, technology, hobbies, or any other area of interest. The 'islands' are a significant upgrade from simple folder structures found in older RSS readers, providing a more visually intuitive and flexible way to manage subscriptions.

But Current isn't merely a cosmetic refresh of an old concept. Ramachandran, a veteran of both Twitter and Instagram, brings a perspective shaped by the downsides of algorithmic feeds. Having experienced the inner workings of platforms driven by engagement metrics and data collection, he expresses a clear desire to offer an alternative. "I was frustrated by the algorithms and constant interruptions of those platforms, and wanted to create something that was more focused and intentional," he stated. This translates directly into a strong commitment to user privacy. In a landscape increasingly dominated by data harvesting, Current explicitly eschews tracking and data selling, opting instead for a subscription model ($9/month or $99/year) to fund its development and operation. A limited free tier is available for those wishing to test the service.

The financial model is crucial. By relying on direct subscriptions, Current avoids the incentives that push algorithmic platforms to prioritize engagement over user well-being. The company isn't beholden to advertisers or data brokers; its primary responsibility is to its subscribers. This commitment to privacy is a significant differentiator, appealing to a growing segment of users who are becoming increasingly aware of the trade-offs inherent in "free" online services.

Visually, Current embodies its minimalist philosophy. The app, available on iOS, macOS, and the web, boasts a clean and uncluttered design that emphasizes readability and reduces distractions. This deliberate aesthetic choice reinforces the app's focus on intentionality and mindful consumption of information. The interface is intentionally stripped of unnecessary features, prioritizing content and ease of use.

The resurgence of interest in RSS, even amidst the dominance of social media, speaks to a growing desire for control over information consumption. While algorithms can be effective at surfacing relevant content, they also create filter bubbles and limit exposure to diverse perspectives. RSS, in its purest form, allows users to actively choose their sources and consume information on their own terms. Current aims to bridge the gap between the simplicity of RSS and the usability expectations of modern apps. It's a bet that many users are seeking a more deliberate and less overwhelming way to stay informed in an increasingly noisy world. Whether Current will succeed in revitalizing the RSS landscape remains to be seen, but it's a compelling offering that deserves attention from anyone disillusioned with the current state of online information consumption.