Substack's Android application represents a significant evolution in digital media consumption, positioning itself as an anti-algorithmic platform that prioritizes direct creator-audience relationships. The app serves as a mobile gateway to Substack's growing ecosystem of independent journalists, writers, and podcasters who have migrated from traditional social media platforms. The core functionality centers around subscription management, allowing users to discover, subscribe to, and support creators through both free and paid tiers. Key features include ad-free video and podcast playback, read-aloud functionality for articles, and real-time engagement tools such as livestreams and group chats. The platform's revenue model enables creators to monetize their work directly through subscriber payments rather than advertising, fundamentally altering the content creation economy. User experience demonstrates thoughtful design with intuitive navigation between subscribed publications, discovery sections, and notification management. The interface prioritizes reading experience with clean typography and minimal distractions, though some users report occasional performance inconsistencies during video playback. Real-world usage patterns show strong engagement during breaking news events and scheduled live sessions, with many users replacing traditional news apps with Substack for specific niche coverage. User feedback consistently highlights appreciation for unfiltered content and community quality. Steven Gates (July 5, 2025) noted migration from YouTube to access free political analysis content, while Penny Brown (August 4, 2025) emphasized the platform's value for international reporting unavailable in mainstream US media. Multiple reviews mention the platform's contrast to algorithm-driven social media, with Savannah Guzman (July 4, 2025) describing it as 'a breath of fresh air' for thoughtful discourse. The platform demonstrates particular strength in supporting independent journalism and niche content communities, though limitations include discoverability challenges for new creators and occasional interface lag during high-traffic events. Ideal use cases involve users seeking specialized expertise outside mainstream media, researchers tracking independent analysis, and communities forming around specific intellectual interests without algorithmic interference.