Noooooooooo………this is some of the worst news I’ve seen and heard from Google in some time as they announce the shutdown of Google Reader. I use Reader multiple times an hour to keep up with news outside of Twitter and this is a huge disappointment for me. Apps like Flipboard greatly rely on Google Reader for RSS integration and this just a huge, huge disappointment. First Andy Rubin, now Google Reader. Excuse me now while I go sob in a corner.

We have just announced on the Official Google Blog that we will soon retire Google Reader (the actual date is July 1, 2013). We know Reader has a devoted following who will be very sad to see it go. We’re sad too.

There are two simple reasons for this: usage of Google Reader has declined, and as a company we’re pouring all of our energy into fewer products. We think that kind of focus will make for a better user experience.

To ensure a smooth transition, we’re providing a three-month sunset period so you have sufficient time to find an alternative feed-reading solution. If you want to retain your Reader data, including subscriptions, you can do so through Google Takeout.

Thank you again for using Reader as your RSS platform.

Seriously, I couldn’t be any more disappointed about this news. So many apps with cross-platform support now dead in the water. What a disappointment Google, you’ve let the internet down.

Google Reader Blog