It was originally published in tabloid format as a "noon paper", then from 2016 as a freesheet in the morning from 7 a.m. onwards.

[4] On 15 June 1993, in partnership with distributor Lityan Systems, both parties launched a one-step video programmer, to help readers key in the four-digit codes assigned for the programmes listed in the television guides published in The New Paper.

The New Paper targets readers with more eye-catching tabloid journalism featuring sensationalist headlines.

It tends to focus on local human-interest stories, with extensive sections on entertainment, fashion and sports.

The newspaper's average daily sales had dropped to 60,000, according to Warren Fernandez, Editor-in-Chief of the English/Malay/Tamil Media group of SPH, before it became a freesheet.