earlyriser: would you mind sharing what is the logic when deciding which article is "the most" popular? is it a simple time snapshot or something more intricate? have you considered using Instapaper API?
I'm collecting more infos that what is available at this moment, but I need to find time to implement it. In which way are you suggesting Instapaper? Do they have something like the most popular? I quickly checked their API but I couldn't not find anything for rrrewind.
Here is my rumble: I'm thinking about an algorithm that would work like singnal-to-noise ratio detector. This requires a lot download bandwidth. It means counting how fast people like, +1, or any other on the internet (techcrunch, etc). Simply, replicating similar logic that HN uses for moving articles from newest page to the front page just for the top 10-20 most popular tech websites (techcrunch, gizmodo, etc). Then you add nice readability features (e.g., Instapaper) and you have a business. I might have a prototype next year but it seems that you have infrastructure that sets you ahead.
I'm happy with this project, it gives me the content I missed and I get in contact with interesting people.