Apple Podcasts has shared annual rankings and charts that cover this year’s best and most popular podcasts shows, individual episodes, networks and creators.
Apple
Apple TV+ sci-fi series ‘Foundation’ is getting a companion podcast
Apple is still a leader when it comes to podcast distribution. And with podcast popularity still at an all-time high, the company wants to make sure it doesn't miss the bus altogether. As a result, companion podcasts meant to promote, and diver even deeper into, Apple Original films and TV shows are a thing. And now there's a new one to look forward to.
Apple TV+ unveils “The Problem with Jon Stewart” trailer and companion podcast
“The Problem with Jon Stewart,” the upcoming Apple TV+ talk show focused on current affairs, will have a companion podcast when it premieres on Apple's video platform next month.
Facebook’s Clubhouse competitor and exclusive podcasts now launching in the US
Facebook is now rolling out its Clubhouse competitor in the US, dubbed Live Audio Rooms, along with exclusive podcasts that are now available on the platform.
Podcasts are coming to Facebook next week
Facebook is jumping on the podcasting bandwagon with news that the social network will debut a podcast platform of its own as soon as next week, according to leaked internal emails.
Apple Podcasts has launched paid subscriptions and channels
The Apple Podcasts service has now debuted paid subscriptions that enable listeners to support their favorite creators with monthly subscriptions, and it supports free trials as well.
Apple Podcasts in-app subscriptions launch globally June 15
After initially announcing new podcast subscriptions within the Apple Podcasts app, Apple delayed its launch soon after. At the time, the company didn't say when the new feature would launch to the public. But now we know.
Apple delays Podcast subscriptions until June
Along with the launch of iOS 14.6 earlier this month, Apple was supposed to welcome subscriptions for podcasts.
But, it turns out there will be a bit of a delay before the feature actually goes live. As reported today by MacRumors, Apple has notified content creators that it is delaying the podcast subscription feature until sometime in June. The reason? Apple wants a good experience for everyone involved.
Spotify for Apple Watch now lets you download music and podcasts for offline listening
At long last, Spotify is refreshing its app for the Apple Watch with a new feature allowing you to download your favorite songs, playlists and podcasts to the device for offline listening.
Apple may unveil a podcasts subscription service at the “Spring Loaded” event tomorrow
Apple has been predicted to announce a new paid subscription service for podcasts at its “Spring Loaded” special online-only event tomorrow, according to a well-connected reporter.
Kids programming coming to Apple Podcasts via Common Sense Media
The iPhone maker has teamed up with age-based content review service Common Sense Media to curate kids-focused narrative audio collections in the Apple Podcasts app.
STORY HIGHLIGHTS:
Kid-approved content on Apple Podcasts. Collections are updated monthly. Currently a US-thing. Listening to podcasts with kidsUnlike rival Spotify and Amazon which split out children-approved content into separate apps, these shows will appear on the Apple Podcasts platform and within the Apple Podcasts apps.
The Verge has more:
The initial four themes focus on narrative storytelling, shows that kids themselves recommend, mysteries and dramas, and Common Sense’s all-time picks. Programming comes from Tinkercast, American Public Media, WNYC Studios, Rebel Girls, and Nickelodeon, among others, and Common Sense will provide age group recommendations.
The collections will be highlighted on Apple's website at apple.com/showsforkids.
Common Sense Media Picks: All-time favorites that families are sure to find entertaining and informative. One More!: Mysterious tales and action-packed dramas that kids of all ages won't want to stop listening to. Kids Know Best: Popular shows for kids, selected by kids themselves. Story Time: Story-driven shows that transport kids into a world of imagination.Suggestions regarding those shows should start appearing today in the main carousel within the Apple Podcasts tab. They’ll also be available via the Browse tab indefinitely.
Apple and kidsKid podcast creators have apparently experienced a boost in listeners at the start of the pandemic. For far too long, many parents have been using smartphone and tablet screens to entertain and occupy their children.
By contrast, listening to podcasts is more of a passive experience than interacting with apps or watching video. Most importantly, it doesn't mean exposing your kid to screens and the blue light which can disrupt their sleep and slow down cognitive development.
Apple also recently launched a new Apple for Kids section on its support website.
Apple Podcasts now highlights rising podcast creators every month
Apple has launched a new editorial franchise which was designed to promote rising podcast creators every month, with comedian and filmmaker Chelsea Devantez's "Celebrity Book Club" the first such feature available at launch. These special editorials are available in the Apple Podcasts apps across the iPhone, iPad, Mac and other devices, including on the web.