Foxish: Add Firefox RSS Feeds to Google Chrome
Bringing RSS Feed Functionality Back to Chrome with Foxish
For users who appreciate Chrome but long for the integrated live RSS feed experience found in Firefox, Foxish offers a straightforward solution. This extension effectively replicates a popular Firefox feature within the Chrome browser.
The Advantage of Native RSS Support in Firefox
Firefox has historically included native support for RSS feeds. These feeds are displayed as easily accessible folders directly within the Firefox bookmark menu and toolbar. This allows for convenient tracking of updates from blogs and frequently updated websites.
Chrome's Initial Omission and Continued Absence
Upon its initial release, Google Chrome notably lacked this built-in RSS feed functionality. Despite four years having passed since its launch, this feature remains absent from the browser.
When an RSS feed is encountered in Chrome, users are presented with a selection of online RSS readers, such as Google Reader. However, the option to directly integrate the feed into their bookmarks is not provided.
A Controversial Decision and a User-Driven Solution
The decision to exclude native RSS support has been met with criticism from many, even those who have transitioned from Firefox to Chrome.
If you share this sentiment, Foxish provides a valuable alternative. This Chrome extension empowers you to manage your RSS feeds precisely where you prefer – alongside your existing bookmarks.
Here's how Foxish helps:
- It restores the familiar RSS folder structure to your Chrome bookmarks.
- It allows for easy access to the latest content from your favorite websites.
- It provides a seamless experience for users accustomed to Firefox's RSS integration.
Integrating RSS Feeds into Chrome's Bookmarks Bar
Begin by installing the Foxish extension for Google Chrome. Upon installation, a toolbar icon will become visible whenever a website provides an RSS feed.
This icon represents the RSS feed, and is uniquely designed in the shape of a fox. The aesthetic choice is subjective, though some may favor the conventional RSS icon. However, this is a relatively minor point.
Simply click the fox icon to incorporate the website’s RSS feed as a bookmark.
This functionality also activates when you directly access an RSS feed. Within the settings interface, you have the ability to assign a custom name to the feed and select its desired location within your bookmarks.
Add as many RSS feeds as you wish to stay informed, and you’ll quickly be able to browse headlines directly from your bookmarks.
To modify existing settings, navigate to the extension’s settings panel. Here, you can adjust the update frequency – also known as the polling time – and remove feeds that are no longer of interest.
Removing a feed from this panel doesn’t always immediately remove it from your bookmark menu. It will, however, cease to be updated. Therefore, complete deletion is recommended.
It’s important to note that simply relocating a folder within Chrome’s bookmark settings can disrupt the feed’s functionality. Ensure you manage feeds through this dedicated menu when reorganizing your bookmarks.
Furthermore, you can export all your subscribed RSS feeds as an OPML file. This allows you to transfer your feeds to another RSS reader if you decide to discontinue using the bookmark method. Having a backup option is always beneficial.
A Recap of RSS Functionality
While the absence of native RSS integration in Chrome is understandable, the convenience it offered is noteworthy. Bookmark folders, though functional, aren't ideally suited for tracking website updates.
The ability to quickly scan headlines, as provided by Firefox's RSS capabilities, was a valuable asset, and its reintroduction in Chrome is a welcome development.
Reader Feedback Requested
We are interested in hearing your opinions regarding the utility of RSS feeds alongside bookmarks.
Please share your perspectives in the comments section below, and also suggest any additional features from Firefox that you would like to see implemented within Chrome.
- Do you find RSS feeds a useful addition to your browsing experience?
- What other Firefox features would enhance your Chrome usage?
Your input is valuable and will help shape the future development of the browser. Feedback is greatly appreciated.