Apple FINALLY Launches Dedicated Podcast Application

Move over Downcast and Stitcher, there is a new podcasting sheriff in town!  After years of being relegated to an option buried in iTunes, Apple decided to get off their laurels and release their first ever podcast focused application.  Apple has never really be known for pushing the envelope, so it is no surprise that the rather obviously titled, Podcasts, attempts to take the existing iTunes podcast abilities and slightly enhance it.

The tool integrates several new features such as subscriptions with automatic downloads, syncing playlists across devices using iCloud, and more straightforward playback controls.  However, it is worth noting that several other applications on the platform have had these features for several years.  The biggest step forward is in the actual store for discovering new podcasts.  This will be a big step forward that will hopefully result in an even deeper public acceptance of the medium.  Apple may be quite a bit behind the podcasting curve, but at least they are making strides in the right direction.

So will you be abandoning your podcast app of choice in favor of Apple's offering?  Let us know what you think in the comments.

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