Now available for usage on web browsers, Apple Podcasts was initially introduced in iTunes back in 2005 and has since been extended to function on various platforms.
Web browsers can already access Apple Music, Apple TV, and iCloud, with Windows apps being compatible with all three services. To the surprise of many, Apple has recently unveiled Apple Maps on the web, with Firefox support now included, a feature that was previously unavailable.
Utilizing Apple Podcasts in Your Web Browser
Currently, Apple Podcasts are seamlessly compatible with popular web browsers such as Safari, Firefox, Chrome, and Edge. Personally, I tested it on Brave and Firefox, and the experience was flawless. While the macOS offers the Podcasts app, using it through a browser can provide a more convenient experience.
To access Apple Podcasts via web browsers, simply visit https://podcasts.apple.com/. You can utilize the search bar on the left to find specific shows, explore new podcasts in the library, or check out the Top Charts for intriguing podcasts.
Although listening to episodes does not require sign-in, there are certain restrictions. For example, signing in to your Apple account is necessary to access episodes with explicit content and facilitates synchronization across devices. If you’re subscribed to shows on your Mac, iPhone, or iPad, signing in enables quick access to them through the web app. The only missing feature in the web app seems to be the lack of available transcripts found in the Podcasts app.
It’s worth noting that making Apple Podcasts available on the web is a valuable addition, particularly for users without a Mac. Even if you own a Windows or Linux system alongside an iPhone or iPad, you can still enjoy this service without an Apple device. This move by Apple broadens the accessibility of the service to a wider user base. While some podcasts may contain advertisements, Apple does not include ads in episodes; any ads are typically integrated directly into the feeds by the podcast hosts. While directly adding podcasts through RSS feeds isn’t supported, you may be able to add them through the Podcasts app on your Mac or iPhone and then access them on the website.
For those who prefer a dedicated desktop application for podcast listening and downloading, gPodder is a viable choice available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. Alternatively, for a browser extension, consider utilizing the podStation add-on for Chrome. Android users can explore AntennaPod on Google Play or F-Droid.
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