CNET Group launches TechPulse app to aggregate ZDNET, PCMag and five other tech sites

CNET Group launched TechPulse on iOS and Android devices, creating a unified feed for its six major technology publications. According to ZDNET Security, the application allows readers to access news, reviews and videos from ZDNET, CNET, PCMag, Mashable, Lifehacker and ExtremeTech without paying a subscription fee.

The app distinguishes itself by removing algorithmic curation from the user experience. Instead of an automated system deciding which stories appear, users manually select which publications populate their feed. This design addresses the editorial desire for a complete content stream rather than a filtered selection based on predicted interest.

Editorial Control and Content Mix

Users configure their experience by opening publication filters within the unified feed. According to the report, individuals can choose to see only ZDNET coverage or leave other publications selected for a mixed stream. The service integrates both written articles and video content directly into this single interface.

Each publication maintains its distinct editorial focus within the aggregated feed. ZDNET targets power users, while CNET emphasizes consumer technology. PCMag provides lab-tested reviews, Mashable covers digital culture, Lifehacker offers practical advice and ExtremeTech provides in-depth technology analysis. Readers can tailor the mix to match their specific professional or personal interests.

Accessibility and Platform Availability

TechPulse is available for download from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. The service model removes financial barriers to entry, as no subscription is required to read any articles or watch any videos. This approach aims to reduce the time users spend navigating between multiple homepages to find relevant industry updates.

The launch targets professionals and enthusiasts who prefer human-written journalism over automated summaries. By consolidating content from six distinct brands, the app offers a centralized location for breaking tech news. Users can scan for the latest stories, expert reviews and hands-on testing reports in one place.

What should you do?

Readers interested in consolidating their tech news sources can download the application from their respective app stores. Users should review the publication filters immediately after installation to ensure their feed reflects their specific information needs. Those who prefer a single-source view can deselect unwanted publications to streamline their reading experience.

What to do and how to stay safe: TechPulse

• Download the TechPulse application from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store to access the aggregated feed.
• Open the publication filters within the app to select or deselect specific CNET Group sites like ZDNET or PCMag.
• Review the feed settings to ensure both articles and videos are displaying according to your preference.
• Monitor the feed for new content to determine if the manual curation model meets your news consumption needs.

Step-by-step guide: Mobile Device Security: How to Protect Data Beyond Passwords

General security guidance from the Threat Times newsroom. It is not confirmed advice from the organisations named in this story.

Frequently asked questions

Which publications are included in the TechPulse feed?

The feed includes content from ZDNET, CNET, PCMag, Mashable, Lifehacker and ExtremeTech.

Is TechPulse free to use?

Yes, there is no subscription required to read articles or watch videos on the platform.

Can users customize which sites appear in their feed?

Yes, users can manually choose which publications appear in their unified feed through publication filters.