(copied from blog comment) It's all about the usability. Of course Google Reader works (along with every other web-based RSS reader), but is it pleasant to use

(copied from blog comment) It's all about the usability. Of course Google Reader works (along with every other web-based RSS reader), but is it pleasant to use? Absolutely not. I'm not implying that the RSS reader concept sucks. I'm saying every implementation I've seen sucks. As a concept, an RSS reader is an amazingly useful application. You can get all of your updates without navigating through cyber-space and having to remember to check your favorite blogs regularly. RSS readers throw it all in your face, and this is good. Thinking of it from a programmer's perspective, this is not better than any other RSS reader. You have to think of it from a user prescriptive. There's a reason iPads are so popular. From a technological standpoint, does it make sense to shell out $600+ on a dumbed down computer with minimal functionality? No way jose. But it's all about convenience and usability - they're enjoyable to use, and this is exactly what a web-app like this would offer (for people who prefer web browsers over tablets).