Google Podcasts now has an 'Add to playlist' button, but it doesn't seem to work yet

Google seems to have finally responded to complaints of its Podcasts app's users. The app now appears to have an "Add to playlist" button. But there are caveats to it. One, the button doesn't seem to work yet. Two, it doesn't show up for all users at the moment. Android Police speculates that it's tied with the recent beta update of the app, and the feature doesn't seem to be enabled yet. At the very least, we now know that it's on Google's agenda to bring the queueing feature to users. Perhaps it can now go up against the likes of Spotify and Pocket Casts as the podcast app of choice.

Spotify gets into original podcast game

Building on its own original content, Spotify is getting into the podcast game with three new podcasts series. The first one, which is already up, is called Showstopper. It’s hosted by The Fader’s Editor-in-Chief Naomi Zeichner and it tackles “pop culture analysis of our favorite music moments in TV.” Coming this March 14 is Unpacked. It’s co-hosted by Matt FX, music supervisor for Comedy Central’s Broad City, and Michele Santucci of Spotify Studios. It revolves around festivals and the people who are a part of it—everyone from musicmakers, filmmakers, to any time of creative people. They’re aptly starting at South by Southwest in Austin, Texas.

The last original podcast is currently called The Chris Lighty Story. Coming in April, it’ll chronicle how Chris Lighty, music industry executive, was able to shape the careers of some of the biggest names in hip hop (50 Cent, LL Cool J, Missy Elliot, Puff Daddy, and Foxy Brown).  There will be direct commentary from the likes of Russell Simmons, Fat Joe, and many more.  Spotify promises there will be more originals heading our way later this year.

Pocket Casts introduces Web player for podcasts

If you are looking to continue listening to podcasts while you’re on your desktop, Pocket Casts is making things easier for you with its new Web player. It syncs with the Android and iOS versions of the app, which means you can see the podcasts you’ve subscribed to. It also shows you what you’ve listened to and what’s in progress. Of course, it will help you find new things to listen to as well. The great thing about the Web player is it will pick up where you left off with the mobile apps. However, if you’re looking for more advanced features, you won’t find that there. Plus, you have to be willing to shell out US$9. You can try it out for free with the app’s 14-day free trial.

Source: Lifehacker

Podcasts for iOS adds Siri, CarPlay integration

If you’ve been an avid user of Podcasts for iOS, you’re in for a treat. A new version of the app now helps make things easier for you. Siri has been integrated into the app. You can now say “play podcasts” or tell Siri to play a specific station. The app also now has CarPlay support in preparation for the new cars coming out.

Version 2.1 also brings a quicker way to browse through your podcasts. There are new Unplayed and Feed tabs to rifle through. You can enable offline listening and tinker with the settings to let the app delete podcasts you’ve already listened to.

Source: MacRumors