Google is not particularly great at keeping secrets. Its Nexus devices always leak and peeks at code are constantly revealing features before they're announced. So, it's no surprise that, exactly one month after we reported references to a Google Play Newsstand popping up, Mountain View is taking the wraps off the new content hub. Like its Apple counterpart, it will play home (get it?) to both newspaper and magazine subscriptions, and it'll even pull in articles from sites and blogs you choose to follow (like this one, we hope). And, even though you'll be able to have your New York Times subscription delivered through Newsstand, you're not forced to use it. The stand alone Times app will continue to be available directly from your home screen.
Articles viewed through the new Newsstand app will be specifically formatted for your tablet or phone, complete with images, audio or video inline. And they'll be available offline so you can can catch up on your news, even if you happen to be on one of the few flights left in the US without WiFi. And, if you come across something particularly interesting, but don't have the time right now for a 4,000 word expose on how Facebook uses your personal data, you can mark it to read later.
Filed under: Internet, Software, Mobile, Google
Source: Google Play Newsstand