Apple Updates Its Podcasts App With Siri Integration, Improved Episode Browsing
by Brent Dirks
May 15, 2014
It has been a nice day for podcast fans. After unveiling an iTunes update that focused on improving podcast support, Apple has just updated its Podcasts app for iOS devices.
And version 2.1 brings a number of nice new features and improvements.
Probably the biggest change is Siri integration. You can now ask the personal assistant to play podcast episodes by saying “play podcasts.” Users can even select specific podcasts and stations via Siri.
Here are all the improvements for episode browsing:
• Quickly find episodes you haven’t listened to in the new Unplayed tab • Browse episodes that are available to download or stream in the Feed tab • Save your favorite episodes to keep them offline • Episodes can now be automatically deleted after you play them • Tap on links that appear in podcast and episode descriptions to open them in SafariTo start playing right from the station list, just tap the Play button next to the name. Finally, along with support for CarPlay, users can also share links to their favorite podcasts with iOS 7’s AirDrop feature. A universal app designed for the iPhone/iPod touch and iPad/iPad mini, Podcasts can be downloaded now on the App Store for free. You’ll need to have iOS 7 or later installed on your device. If you’re looking for an alternative to Apple’s app, definitely take a look at the fantastic Castro. The iPhone/iPod touch app was updated earlier this week to version 1.1 and now features continuous play and enhanced audio quality. Even though it will set you back $3.99, it is a powerful and feature-rich way to manage podcasts.
