Apple News vs SmartNews

2023. News aggregator app SmartNews’ latest feature aims to tackle doomscrolling



SmartNews, the news aggregator app, is launching a new feature aimed at addressing the anxiety often associated with constantly consuming negative news, a behavior commonly referred to as "doomscrolling." In contrast to encouraging mindless scrolling through distressing headlines, the new feature, known as SmartTake, promises to provide a curated selection of uplifting stories, editor's picks, informative articles, and soothing visuals all in one convenient place. This represents a notable shift in approach for SmartNews, which has traditionally sent push notifications with news and entertainment headlines designed to entice users to open the app and read, even if the headlines aren't extreme enough to be classified as clickbait. The app's top news section has typically featured attention-grabbing stories, including those related to crimes, kidnappings, accidents, or significant and controversial statements made by public figures and government officials.


2021. News aggregator SmartNews raises $230 million



SmartNews, a news aggregation website and app that has gained significant popularity despite facing tough competition from built-in aggregators like Apple News, has successfully raised $230 million in Series F funding. The company, originally founded in Japan in 2012, expanded its presence to the United States in 2014 and recently focused on expanding its coverage of local news. While SmartNews benefits from the expertise of its content team, which includes former journalists, it leverages machine learning algorithms to curate articles and personalize the user experience. What sets SmartNews apart is its commitment to counteract filter bubbles through its unique feature called "News From All Sides," enabling users to access news from a diverse range of political perspectives. This approach promotes a well-rounded and balanced news consumption experience.


2020. News reading app SmartNews raises $92M



SmartNews recently concluded a funding round, securing $92 million at a valuation of $1.2 billion. While news aggregation apps were abundant a few years ago, they didn't all become successful ventures, with many being acquired or shutting down. However, SmartNews stands out due to its distinct advantages. Firstly, it leverages machine learning instead of human curation to provide a personalized news discovery experience for each user. Secondly, unlike many news aggregators, SmartNews values its partnership with publishers rather than treating them as mere commodities. Through initiatives like SmartView First, SmartNews collaborates with select publishers such as Business Insider, Bloomberg, BuzzFeed, and Reuters, offering a customized article format that enhances revenue opportunities and provides better analytics.


2019. Apple shuts down Texture following launch of Apple News+



As anticipated, Texture, the subscription-based magazine service, has officially ceased operations following the introduction of Apple News+. Apple acquired Texture in the past with the intention of using it as the foundation for ‌Apple News‌+. It was later announced that Texture would no longer be functional after May 28. As expected, the app has now ceased to operate and redirects users to ‌Apple News‌+. However, it is important to note that while Apple's notice in the Texture app assures users that they can continue reading their favorite magazines on ‌Apple News‌+, the service is limited to the iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, and Mac. Texture previously supported various platforms, including iOS, macOS, Android, and Windows.