UNIT 4 - NEWS FEED: RSS & ATOM
Introduction to News Feeds:
A news feed is a system that allows websites to distribute their frequently updated content (such as
news headlines, blog posts, podcasts, and job postings) to subscribers in a standard format.
The two major technologies used:
- RSS (Really Simple Syndication)
- Atom Feed
RSS Feed (Really Simple Syndication)
Definition:
RSS is an XML-based web content syndication format. It enables publishers to broadcast updates
and users to receive content automatically in one place, using feed readers.
Protocol:
- Open method of content syndication
- Based on XML structure
- Used by blogs, news sites, and podcasts
Versions of RSS:
1. RSS 0.9 - Rich Site Summary
2. RSS 1.0 - RDF Site Summary
3. RSS 2.0 / 2.0.1 / 0.9x - Really Simple Syndication
Features of RSS:
- Publish once, distribute widely
- Keeps users updated without visiting websites
- Saves time, avoids email spam
- Delivers only chosen content
- Easy to republish
- Timely and relevant
Working of RSS:
For Publishers:
- Create RSS XML file with title, link, description
- Upload to website and register
- Created manually or via tools
- Updates available to subscribers
For Users:
- Use RSS feed reader or news aggregator
- Examples: Feedly, Inoreader
- Reader checks feed and shows updates
- Supports multiple channels and customization
Steps to Read an RSS Feed:
1. Get an RSS reader
2. Install it
3. Add channel URLs
4. Customize interface
5. Remove unwanted feeds
Applications of RSS:
- News updates
- Job listings
- Real estate
- Press releases
- Podcasts
- Educational and entertainment content
Feed Validation Tools:
- Feed validator
- RSS validator
- Redland RSS 1.0 viewer
Atom Feed
Definition:
Atom is a modern syndication format similar to RSS but more robust and standardized. Also
XML-based and used for frequently updated content.
Key Features:
- Open standard with auto-discovery
- Uses HTTP methods: GET, POST, PUT, DELETE
- Globally unique IDs for each entry
- Separate summary and content elements
- Shows last updated time
Feed Structure:
- Elements: <feed>, <entry>, <summary>, <content>
- File often ends in [Link]
Comparison Between RSS and Atom:
| Feature | RSS | Atom |
|----------------------|---------------------------------|----------------------------------|
| Format | XML | XML |
| Auto-discovery | Not standardized | Built-in |
| Timestamps | Created & Last Updated | Only Last Updated |
| XML Tags | <item>, <channel> | <feed>, <entry>, <summary> |
| Content Type | Text, HTML, XML, base64 | Plain text or escaped HTML |
| Extensions | XML namespaces allowed | Fixed namespaces |
| Encryption | XML digital signature support | Standard web encryption |
Conclusion:
RSS and Atom both automate content delivery. RSS is more popular, while Atom is more structured
and standardized. The choice depends on user and publisher needs.
