An update to this post (18th June 2018). RSS is dead? Long Live RSS! Here is a link to some alternative RSS readers, kindly provided by Tom Howard.
As a closet fan of all that is ‘Google’, I was wondering when I should make the final step in my transition from Bloglines to Google Reader. I’ve been using both for some time now, which is bit of a pain when I have to add and categorise a new feed since I end up replicating the process twice. However, I think the recent announcement about Google Gearsis the tipping point I needed. So, sadly, it’s goodbye to Bloglines, but loyalty only goes so far.
Basically, Gears is a browser add-on that enables web-based applications to run locally whilst off-line. The product is in Beta at the moment, and only supports the Google Reader (RSS feed aggregator). However, we can expect to see support for Google Docs & Spreadsheets, Google Mail,Google Blogger, and in fact any of their applications where there is value to be gained by working off-line and on-line.
Looks like another killer app to me!
Stephen is Director and founder of Collabor8now Ltd, an organization focussed on developing collaborative environments (e.g. Communities of Practice) and the integration of knowledge management tools and processes to support business improvement. He is a certified knowledge manager with the Knowledge Management Institute (KMI) and the author of several published research papers on collaborative behaviours and information technology.
Thanks Dave – looks like this is taking off quicker than I thought. Having ability to use Google docs and spreadsheets in off-line or on-line mode is becoming a more compelling alternative to Microsoft’s expensive and bloated Office products. Mr Gates et al must be getting worried!
Good to hear you’ve given up on Bloglines, Steve – that product hasn’t changed much for years, and is lagging behind the leaders.
Gears is, I think, going to be massive, especially now others are getting in on the act already – see http://lgnewmedia.net/blog/2007/06/05/gearing-up/.
Thanks Dave – looks like this is taking off quicker than I thought. Having ability to use Google docs and spreadsheets in off-line or on-line mode is becoming a more compelling alternative to Microsoft’s expensive and bloated Office products. Mr Gates et al must be getting worried!
very interesting.
i’m adding in RSS Reader