Using RSS feeds
RSS, or Really Simple Syndication, offers a clean, efficient way to stay updated with your favourite websites without the distractions of modern web browsing. Here is why you should embrace RSS, how it works, and how to get started.
Benefits of RSS
RSS delivers content directly to you, so you do not need to visit websites and risk getting pulled in by algorithms designed to keep you scrolling. This saves time and helps you stay focused on what matters.
Other advantages include:
- Fewer or no ads.
- No cookie banners.
- No chat popups.
- No newsletter prompts.
- No notification requests.
What Is an RSS Feed?
RSS is a system that sends updates from websites to an RSS reader. It uses simple text files and XML to pull out key information, like article titles or summaries. Feeds now include images, videos, and more, all in a streamlined format for fast loading and compatibility with readers. This lets you customise your online experience and get automatic updates from sites you follow.
Finding RSS Feeds
Website creators or podcasters provide RSS feeds with their latest updates. You can view these feeds directly or subscribe through an RSS reader, which fetches new content automatically. Most readers let you find a site’s feed by entering its URL.
Some platforms hide their RSS feeds. Here are examples:
YouTube
Feed format: https://www.youtube.com/feeds/videos.xml?channel_id=THE_CHANNEL_ID_HERE
To subscribe, find the Channel ID using a tool like this. For example:
- Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@marthijndevries
- Channel ID: UCH4eXlgdvf4by9uVqjJtY7w
- RSS Feed: https://www.youtube.com/feeds/videos.xml?channel_id=UCH4eXlgdvf4by9uVqjJtY7w
Feed format: https://www.reddit.com/r/SUBREDDIT.rss
For example:
- Subreddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/oddlysatisfying/
- RSS Feed: https://www.reddit.com/r/oddlysatisfying.rss
Feed format: https://nitter.net/USERNAME/rss
For example:
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/NASA
- RSS Feed: https://nitter.net/NASA/rss
Choosing an RSS Reader
An RSS reader works like an email inbox, showing the latest content from sites you follow. You can read updates in the reader or visit the original site. The reader marks content as read once you view it.
For Apple users, I recommend NetNewsWire, available on macOS and iOS with iCloud syncing. Other great options include:
Does This Site Have an RSS Feed?
Yes, this website offers RSS feeds.
Conclusion
RSS is a powerful tool to stay informed without the clutter of modern websites. It saves time, cuts distractions, and puts you in control of your content. Try an RSS reader, subscribe to your favourite sites, and enjoy a cleaner, more focused online experience.
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