Podcasts Guide
Subscribing to Podcasts

A podcast is a digital media file type that is distributed over the Internet. Podcasts are usually audio-only files, but may include video as well. Despite the similarity in names, an iPod is not necessary to listen to a podcast. Nearly all MP3 players, whether they are computer software programs or separate devices, can play a podcast.

Podcasts differ from other multimedia files in one very significant way: listeners can subscribe to podcasts so they will automatically be alerted when new content is available instead of having to check a Web site for updates. To subscribe, listeners will need to use software that can read RSS (Really Simple Syndication) and Atom feeds.

Feed readers may be either provided as separate programs or incorporated into Web browsers (e.g., Internet Explorer, Firefox, etc.) or email clients (e.g., Microsoft Outlook). Once listeners add a podcast to their subscription list, the software checks the RSS feed coming from the podcast’s Web site and notifies the listener when content is added. Podcasts can be opened from within the reader without having to go to another page.

		Podcast FAQs
		Podcasting in Plain English
		Podcasting: Finding and Subscribing to Podcasts
		Science Audio: How to Subscribe to Podcasts
		Using iTunes for Podcasting