Capsule Launches Innovative App Merging AI Technology and Human Editors for Curated News Delivery

A Paris-based startup, Capsule, is revolutionizing the way users consume daily news. Unlike traditional news aggregators, Capsule aims to be the "Spotify for news" by blending AI technology with human editorial curation. This innovative approach transforms articles, newsletter snippets, tweets (posts on X), and social media updates into an easily digestible format within its user-friendly app.

Using Capsule feels reminiscent of swiping through TikTok or other social platforms. The app features a vertical scrolling feed that presents news as a series of eye-catching headlines paired with images or screenshots from platforms like X and LinkedIn. Users can tap on any headline to access a summary, with an option to view the full article or post via a link in the upper-left corner that directs them to the publisher’s website.

The app was founded by Jérôme Boé and Arthur de Villemandy, with Boé previously creating a short-form video app called Snax, which he closed due to high operational costs. De Villemandy also contributed his expertise, having run a newsletter titled “Magma,” which investigated business trends and insights.

According to Boé, the goal behind Capsule is to make quality news more accessible through a network of curators. Future plans include organizing content similarly to music on Spotify, by creating curated “playlists” of news and tailored recommendations.

“Capsule isn’t just another Google News-style aggregator,” Boé explains. “It's more than clicking through to sources. Think of it as a launching pad for deeper exploration. We research, cross-reference, and enrich our content to provide users with a comprehensive view. Our aim is to create a mini newsletter filled with clickable links, images, and forthcoming interactive elements.”

The app harnesses AI to distill essential insights from articles, while Capsule’s editorial team supplements these findings with additional research. Currently, a team of 10 freelance curators, described as "avid readers with a unique perspective," sources new content. Boé emphasizes that “AI alone falls short,” as the curation process requires a nuanced, subjective approach to remain true to their editorial ethos, which focuses on trends and insights for modern leaders.

All news discovered by curators is sourced, verified, and presented in a digestible format by Capsule’s editorial team. Daily, Capsule adds approximately 20 to 30 selected insights, spotlighting major news, emerging trends, and sometimes subtle signals.

In addition to curated content, AI is employed to suggest related news stories. This feature enhances the "depth and breadth" of the user experience, according to Boé.

Distinct from other news-sharing apps like Artifact, Capsule currently imposes no restrictions on its news sources. The app has already integrated content from over 400 news outlets and continues to expand its offerings.

While Capsule is presently bootstrapped by its four-person team, they are contemplating a freemium model for the future, aiming to perfect the user experience and gain traction as Boé states. Users can currently download the app for free on iOS.