The newsfeed, which is modeled after similar systems from The Huffington Post and Forbes, functions as an on-site RSS reader, letting registered readers subscribe only to the sections, blogs and writers they're interested in. It's both a useful tool and a way for Slate to drive more engagement with its readers, serving them stories they're more likely to click on and alerting them to activity on comments they've left on Slate articles.
MySlate is accessible on-site through the top navigation bar on the Slate homepage and via the sharing toolbars on article pages. Users can also opt to have their newsfeed delivered in a daily newsletter to their email inboxes. An Instapaper-like tool that lets readers bookmark stories for later reading is being rolled out site-wide as well.
Dan Check, Slate's technical director, says that MySlate was specifically requested by readers: namely, a vocal minority wanted a way to subscribe to the most recent "Dear Prudence" advice columns.
MySlate isn't yet available on mobile, but Check says that's high on the priority list, as is making the tool more social and customizable. But first he's awaiting the initial round of user feedback.