Podcast
Podcast
An audio program distributed over the internet.
In Simple Terms
A podcast is an audio program distributed over the internet. Shows covering all kinds of topics — from news and language learning to comedy — are available from creators around the world, and you can listen through apps on your smartphone or computer. Because you can record and publish using just an app without any special equipment, individuals and businesses use them to share their own shows too.
Behind the Name
The word is a blend of Apple's portable music player "iPod" and "broadcast," meaning to transmit content widely. The name was coined when iPods were just taking off, describing this new way of downloading audio shows from the internet and taking them on the go.
Take a Closer Look!
A podcast is an audio program distributed over the internet.
Creators from around the world — from professionals to hobbyists — produce shows on all kinds of topics, including news, language learning, comedy, and personal interests.
You can listen through apps on your smartphone or computer.
While similar to video platforms like YouTube, many podcasts are audio-only.
Because you don't need to watch a screen, they're often listened to while doing something else — commuting, doing chores, or working out.
Anyone can easily share their own show with the world, which is another defining feature of podcasts.
Without any special broadcasting equipment, you can record and publish using just a smartphone or computer app, making it easy for individuals to get started.
Businesses also use podcasts to share information about themselves.