Google Reader
From TechHelp
Google Reader is a web-based RSS aggregator or reader that collects and displays news and information as text, audio or video in one central location.
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[edit] Getting Started
Begin by starting a Google Account by either creating a Google Mail account(a.k.a - Gmail) or use an existing e-mail address to create a Google Reader account. If you already have an existing Google account simply visit http://reader.google.com and sign in to get started. GR has made it simple to learn how to use your new reader via an introductory video as well as tips that pop up as you click on a feature you haven't visited or used yet. A little advice, read these, they are very helpful and can get you more than just on your way.
NOTE: A Gmail account an Internet mail account that provides a lot of features with this free e-mail account you receive over 5 Gigabytes of free online file storage, chat via Google Talk, and more.
[edit] Subscribing
Subscribing can be done a couple of different ways depending upon the web browser used. Newer browsers, like Firefox and Internet Explorer 7 can store and read feeds themselves, but they offer an easy way to subscribe to feeds using Google Reader. To add a feed from your RSS feed friendly browser you will need to set up your browser to use your particular reader to subscribe.
[edit] Add Subscription
One other way to subscribe to feeds is to use Google Reader itself. Simply copy and paste the RSS address (this address usually contains "rss") into the Add Subscription field and click Add.
[edit] Firefox Users
- Select the Tools > Options and click on the Feeds tab. You can select to see a preview of the feed and have the option to select the reader you choose or you can choose the Subscribe to the feed using: option and choose Google.
- Once you've set the browser to use Google Reader to subscribe to new feeds you can use the the RSS icon in the Address bar to subscribe to sites that contain feeds. Note: Not all sites contain RSS feeds, however, if a site does, it will have an RSS icon in the address bar. Clicking on the icon will bring you to Google's subscribe page. Choose to either place this feed in your reader (right) or on your Google homepage (left). Google homepage or iGoogle is a popular homepage for Google users where a variety of content can be added, including RSS feeds.
[edit] Internet Explorer Users
- Microsoft Internet Explorer does not allow users to select other RSS readers as their default reader. IE's does have an RSS icon, however, it is located in the toolbar below the address bar. Click on this RSS icon to bring up IE's feed page.
- Note: You must use Internet Explorer 7 or higher to use RSS in Internet Explorer.
- To subscribe to the feed you will need to copy the feed address (located in the address bar) and paste it into Google Reader's Add Subscription field (see below).
[edit] Reading Feeds
There are a variety of ways in which to readyour RSS feeds in Google Reader. Below are screenshots of the Home view (left), the List view (center) and the Expanded view (right).
