Feedly is a popular RSS reader that lets you follow your favorite news sources, blogs, podcasts, and more—all in one place. It’s like having your own personal newspaper, updated in real-time. But recently, something big has changed.
Google has stopped supporting Feedly in some key ways. This might have you scratching your head. Why would Google do that? And what does it mean for Feedly users?
Let’s dive into it in a simple and fun way!
So, What Happened?
Google didn’t exactly announce this in a huge press release. But little by little, users and blog posts started noticing problems. Features that relied on Google were glitchy—or gone.
The main issue? Google’s secure login process, called OAuth, has changed. This is the way many apps (like Feedly) let you log in using your Google account. It keeps things simple and safe.
But Google updated its rules. Feedly couldn’t—or didn’t—keep up.
Why Did Google Make These Changes?
Google updates its security policies often. It wants to:
- Protect your personal data
- Reduce the chance of hackers or data leaks
- Make sure third-party apps use up-to-date login methods
In short, Google wants developers to meet higher safety standards. Apps that don’t follow new rules get cut off.
That’s what happened to Feedly. If you used Google to log in, you may have been kicked out or warned that the login won’t work anymore.
What It Means for Users
All of this can feel a little messy. Here’s what you need to know:
- If you used Google to log in: You might need to change your login method.
- If your Feedly account is tied to your Google ID: You may temporarily lose access unless you switch.
- New Feedly accounts: Creating an account with Google is no longer supported.
And that’s not all. Some features that used Google services—like instant article previews or integrations with Google Docs—might not work like they used to.
What Can You Do Now?
Don’t panic! You’ve got options.
- Create a Feedly login with your email and a strong password. This is the most direct way to keep access.
- Reconnect your account if you’re locked out. Feedly offers support and steps for doing this on their help page.
- Export your feeds. Just in case, download an OPML file. That’s like a backup of all your subscriptions.
Is Feedly Shutting Down?
No, not at all! Feedly is alive and well. The company is still updating features, fixing bugs, and improving how the app works. This Google thing is just a bump in the road.
In fact, Feedly has already announced that they are working on a new and better login method. Something easier and more universal.
Could This Happen Again?
Probably. Tech companies are always evolving. APIs (app connections), privacy rules, and login systems change all the time.
That’s why it’s a good idea to:
- Stay updated with news from apps you use
- Don’t rely on just one login method like Google or Facebook
- Back up your data regularly
The Bright Side
Even though it’s annoying now, this move could lead to a more independent and flexible Feedly. One that doesn’t rely so much on another company’s rules.
Plus, many people see it as a push toward better privacy. Less Google doesn’t always mean things are worse—sometimes, it means you’re more in control of your data.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a Feedly fan, don’t give up. You might need to update your login or tweak your settings. But Feedly is still one of the best ways to enjoy the web without being bombarded by algorithms or ads.
And who knows? Maybe Feedly 2.0 will be even better.
Stay curious, stay informed, and happy reading!
