HTC unveiled an updated version of BlinkFeed with the HTC One (M8) earlier this week, adding new content providers,a refresh user interface and opening up the API to developers to allow them to add their own content as well. The launcher app has so far been available only on certain HTC devices but that looks set to change in the near future. Buried in the fine print of the press release for the HTC One (M8) launch is a footnote that suggests that HTC will soon open up the app to “other Android devices” through Google Play.
Following its popularity with HTC users, HTC will now make HTC BlinkFeed available to other Android devices, launching on the Google Play store soon.
Much as other manufacturers have done with their own apps, HTC has already made a number of HTC Sense apps available through Google Play. These include not only BlinkFeed but also HTC Zoe, HTC Sense TV and HTC Fetch among others. So far only compatible with HTC devices, this practice makes it easier to update apps as it does not rely on a firmware update.
Opening up Blinkfeed to non-HTC devices is certainly an interesting move. It may allow HTC to build up its brand awareness among non-HTC users in the hopes that they would be more inclined to consider an HTC device as their next one.
It remains to be seen if HTC will also make other HTC apps such as Zoe available to other devices.
If HTC does make its BlinkFeed app available to other Android devices, will you try it out? Let us know below.
Sources : HTC // AndroidCentral