Current is a new RSS reader that's more like a river than an inbox | TechCrunch

TechCrunch

by Sarah Perez

February 19, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Current is a new RSS reader designed to offer a stress-free, engaging experience by reimagining the traditional feed as a flowing "river" of news rather than an inbox filled with unread items. Developed by Terry Godier, Current aims to reduce the anxiety often associated with RSS readers, which traditionally resemble email inboxes with unread counts and bolded text for new items. Instead, the app presents content as aging items that linger briefly before fading away, eliminating the pressure to constantly clear unreads. Users can swipe left to dismiss articles or tap a button at the end of an article to return to the river of news. The app’s unique interface allows users to customize how long different types of content remain visible: breaking news appears for three hours, while evergreen tutorials stay in view for up to a week. This aging system is designed to mimic real-world experiences, where information naturally fades over time without requiring active management. Current also includes features like full-text fetching (even when websites truncate feeds), the ability to mute sources for a week, and a "pinning" feature to keep important sources at the top of the river. Additionally, the app intelligently adjusts content delivery based on user behavior, offering suggestions to quiet overwhelming sources or highlight frequently read ones. For tech enthusiasts and RSS aficionados, Current represents a significant leap forward in how news consumption is approached. By eliminating the stress of unread counts and replacing it with a natural, flowing experience, the app makes RSS more accessible and enjoyable for casual users who don’t rely on news for work. Its innovative features, such as adaptive aging timelines and intelligent content suggestions, cater to both casual readers and information junkies looking

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Originally published on TechCrunch on 2/19/2026