The Best Open Source RSS Readers for Android

Stay up-to-date while on the go

by
Dave Rankin
Writer
Dave Rankin is a former Lifewire writer and a senior software developer who co-owns a digital creative agency and creates and distributes open source software.
our editorial process
Dave Rankin
Updated on September 11, 2020

Really Simple Syndication (RSS), sometimes also called Rich Site Summary, has been a popular way to deliver website updates since around 2000. These free and open-source RSS readers for Android allow you to access your favorite online content whenever and wherever you want.

These apps are available in the Google Play Store. Check the system requirements to make sure they are compatible with your device.

01
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Best Open Source RSS Reader: Flipboard

Flipboard app for Android
What We Like

  • It has an easy-to-navigate interface.

  • Suggests new feeds based on your interests.

  • Share your feeds with others.

What We Don't Like

  • It isn't compatible with VPNs.

  • The comment sections can be toxic.

Best described as a smart magazine, Flipboard is a popular social news app for Android. It displays the top news stories from all your feeds on one screen by default. However, you can customize the layout and share your personal Flipboard with the world. In addition to articles, you can also get videos, podcasts, and more.

02
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Best Simple Open Source RSS Reader for Android: Sparse RSS Mod

Sparse RSS Mod for Android
What We Like

  • Loads feeds in the background so that you have the latest updates.

  • Choose between dark and light themes.

  • Supports AMP and Google Weblight integration.

What We Don't Like

  • It's missing some features of the original Sparse RSS.

  • It has bugs to iron out on some devices.

Do you want a no-frills RSS feed reader? As the name suggests, Sparse RSS Mod is based on the Google Sparse RSS source code. It also has a widget so that you can get updates on your home screen. If you want to try Sparse RSS, but you don't want to sideload it on your device, this mod is worth a download.

03
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Best RSS Reader for News: News Break

News Break RSS feed reader for Android
What We Like

  • Automatically pulls from over 10,000 local news sources.

  • Keep tabs on local businesses.

  • Share comments on news stories.

What We Don't Like

  • No national news.

  • Incessant notifications.

News Break is an AI-driven RSS feed reader that collects news stories and videos from around the globe. When you enter your zip code, the app populates with local news feeds. It also provides real-time updates on breaking news topics in addition to what's on your feed.

04
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Best RSS Reader for Podcasts: Podcast Addict

Podcast Addict app for Android
What We Like

  • Makes it easy to browse and search for podcasts.

  • Integrates with YouTube and SoundCloud.

  • Automatically backs up your podcasts to the cloud.

What We Don't Like

  • The RSS reader could offer more options.

  • Occasionally cluttered interface.

Although many RSS reader apps support podcasts, Podcast Addict is specifically designed to help you find and keep up with your favorite podcasts. It also features a standard RSS feed reader. In addition to Android smartphones and tablets, Podcast Addict supports Android Auto, Chromecast, and Wear OS devices.

05
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Best RSS Feed Reader for Offline Reading: Flym

Flym RSS app on Android
What We Like

  • An impressive interface.

  • Supports OPML.

  • Has dark and light themes.

What We Don't Like

  • Occasional bugs.

  • Doesn't sync with other online RSS feed readers.

The Flym News Reader hasn't been around as long as some other apps on this list, but it's worth a mention. It comes with several built-in news feeds from which you can choose. The impressive interface is optimized for reading offline, so you don't need to be connected to the web to view your feeds.

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