iTunes 4.9
Today Apple released iTunes 4.9. iTunes has become the defacto standard for jukebox software over the years. It redefined itself when Apple released its online music store built directly into the interface.
It’s redefining itself again with Podcasts (or internet radio) subscriptions built right into the music store. All the content is free, and sync-able with your iPod.
One of the best features that iTunes 4.9 has, as it related to podcasts, is the ability to subscribe to the shows you want. So unlike the music store where you have to download each track - podcasts are automatically downloaded whenever a new “show” is available. Very cool, incredibly convenient and this functionality definitely belongs within iTunes.
Another feature that I enjoy is the fact that iTunes remembers where you last played each show that you’ve downloaded. So, if you’re listening to Inside Mac Radio for 3 minutes, and you switch to Adam Curry’s Daily Source Code for a few minutes, when you switch back it picks up where it left off. This is something that will prove very valuable when you’re subscribing to podcasts.
Again Apple is leading the way being that its the first major-corporation to officially support podcasting. But it is of no suprise, since they will no doubt sell more iPods because of it.
Update: My boy Bwana over at Braytek alerted everyone to Chapters. Something that I originally missed in iTunes 4.9. Good find Bwana.
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