Podcasting is the distribution of audio or video files, such as radio programs or music videos, over the Internet using either
RSS or Atom syndication for listening on mobile devices and personal computers. Podcasting has evolved over the past year as a new medium for broadcasting. The name "podcasting" derives from merging the terms "ipod" with "broadcasting".
The term podcast, like "radio", can mean both the content and the method of delivery. Podcasters' websites also may offer direct download of their files, but the subscription feed of automatically delivered new content is what distinguishes a podcast from a simple download or real-time streaming. Usually, the podcast features one type of "show" with new episodes either sporadically or at planned intervals such as daily, weekly, etc. In addition to this, there are podcast networks that feature multiple shows on the same feed.
Podcasting's essence is about creating content (audio or video) for an audience that wants to listen when they want, where they want, and how they want.
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