Yahoo News has recently launched a new app that integrates features from the now-defunct Artifact news aggregation app. Artifact, previously built by Instagram co-founders Kevin Systrom and Mike Krieger, had faced a downfall in its final stretch as it deviated from its original goal of being a “TikTok for Text.” However, Yahoo’s acquisition of Artifact in April has breathed new life into the app’s architecture, now being incorporated into the Yahoo News app.
The new Yahoo News app offers users an AI-powered personalized news feed tailored to their interests. Additionally, a feature called Key Takeaways provides readers with bullet point summaries of news articles for those looking for a quick overview. Users can access Top Stories, which highlights trending news stories and will soon include key takeaway summaries. The app also allows users to block stories with undesired keywords and filter out specific publishers based on preference.
While Yahoo has not fully reincorporated Artifact’s social features into the new app, users can still share article excerpts with friends. Additionally, the app includes a gamified “streak” feature and badges that recognize heavy readers for their dedication. These elements aim to make the news reading experience more engaging and interactive for users.
Yahoo News is not restricting the new features to the app alone. The enhancements made to the Yahoo News app are also being extended to the Yahoo News online homepage. The updated website layout showcases top news, provides personalized recommendations, and displays trending topics. Users have the option to opt-in to the new homepage experience, enhancing their news browsing experience on both the app and website platforms.
Yahoo’s integration of Artifact’s features into the Yahoo News app demonstrates a commitment to providing users with a comprehensive and engaging news experience. By combining personalized news feeds, key takeaway summaries, and social sharing capabilities, Yahoo is catering to the diverse preferences of news readers while also incorporating gamified elements to enhance user interaction. The expansion of these features to the Yahoo News online homepage further strengthens the platform’s appeal and usability for a wider audience.
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