Default RSS Feeds in Longhorn
In response to Steve Rubel’s question: “What feeds should be default in IE7 and Longhorn“, I like when programs give me a clearly-written option to install extra things, but otherwise leave everything plain-as-vanilla by default. I could see the question arise during installation (or even later) if I would enjoy the chance to select from several well-established RSS feeds across a small spectrum. Not too vast to blow-away the new user, but with some interesting categories. To me, a few selected feeds under headings such as these would be good:
- News
- Technology
- Politics / Government
(does my city have an RSS newsfeed? How can I get more involved in my community?) - Entertainment (Movies & Music)
- Living / Lifestyle / Travel
- Health
- …and maybe some light shopping links
Finally, I would love a well-written, easy-access audiovisual presentation from Microsoft explaining lightly what an RSS feed actually is, how to use them, why it’s valuable to the everyday user, and how to spot one. One thing is incredibly clear: when Microsoft wants to promote an idea or a concept, they do an exceptional job.
«soapbox»None of us fully know where RSS is going, but we know its very nature restricts confinement. Please, Microsoft, be a team-player in the larger RSS landscape on this one. Don’t try and cage it up or force it to obey you. Let the people choose. Just give us the tools and show us how to use them.«/soapbox»
