Pocket adds content curation feature with latest version 5.0

Pocket, formerly Read It Later, adds three major features to its latest build with "Highlights," the app-connected "Preferences," and an overhauled user interface.

Highlights is reminiscent of content suggestion services offered by apps like Flipboard, which attempt to personalize a user's feed by recommending stories they think will be of interest. In Pocket's case, this content already lives in the app as previously saved items.

Instead of browsing through a pile of saved articles, Pocket will surface content based on usage history. Using algorithms, the app will display items in four categories: "Best of," Trending," "Long Reads" and "Quick Reads." The app adapts to reading patterns and can suggest what content is most suitable for the Highlights section.

In addition, the feature also creates offers content discovery by way of dynamic categories filled with items from frequented sites, authors and others.

Perhaps most interesting is an external service that connects to other apps. Dubbed "Pocket Preferences," the feature allows users to integrate their Pocket account with participating websites to share usage patterns. The data can then be used to create a dynamically changing customized recommendations list.

While Pocket version 5.0 is out now, Highlights is seeing a staggered rollout, but should be available to all customers within a few weeks. Further down the road, the new features will be added to the service's web, packaged and Mac apps.

Finally, the app features a tweaked UI that grants easy access to commonly used functions with a new sidebar.

Pocket is a free 21.4MB download from the App Store.