The term podcast comes from the words ipod and broadcasting. Podcasting allows users to create and broadcast content on the web using audio and and video. Video podcasts are sometimes called vodcasts.
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- Easy to create and distribute
- Anyone can create content
- All you need is a computer, microphone and Internet access
- Can reach millions of people
- Select content which can include newspapers, magazines, radio, television, movies, meetings and classes
- Allows listener to be mobile with media players and laptops
- Listen when and where you want to the content you choose
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RSS (Really Simple Syndication) allows podcasts to be distributed and downloaded automatically to anyone who subscribes to the podcast. These can be downloaded manually or through software programs that download new content automatically so that the user can listen when it is convenient. Podcasts are also available as individual downloads so that the user can choose to listen to one without receiving all the shows. The majority of podcasts are free, although some programs have a fee.
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A podcast aggregator is software that finds and downloads podcasts. This allows users to receive automatic updates to their favorite podcasts. There are many available and you should choose one based upon your needs, operating system and preferences. Some popular ones are iTunes, gpodder, Juice and Miro.
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| MP3 stands for MPEG-1 Audio Layer 3 which became the standard for audio digital compression worldwide. MP refers to the MPEG roots of MP3 conversion. MPEG stands for Moving Picture Experts Group which was developed in 1988 to set standards for digital encoding. MP3 allows digital audio files to be compressed into smaller files without losing quality.
MP4 stands for Moving Pictures Expert Group 4 and is designed for video playback.
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