Public media organization PRX announced a new audio project targeting younger listeners. TRAX is an upcoming podcast network for an audience aged 9-13. The network received a grant of $1.6 million from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting to offer free, on-demand audio programming aimed at tweens. Continue Reading
The Amazon Echo line of smart devices is getting new integrations aimed at improving the options for podcast fans. Both Spotify and Apple announced today that their podcast content can be played on the Amazon devices. We try it out. Mixed results. Continue Reading
The Google Podcasts app has been updated with a new, more specific level of recommendations. The software has added a “Recommended” tab to the home screen, and this area includes suggested episodes that a given individual would enjoy based on recent listening. Continue Reading
Sony Music Entertainment announced yet another partnership in the podcast space. The major label has invested in Neon Hum, a production house founded by Jonathan Hirsch. The amount of Sony’s investment was not disclosed. Continue Reading
Audible is launching a new audio entertainment app in India. Audible Suno houses hundreds of hours of audio content, including more than 60 original and exclusive episodes of shows. The service is free to listen and ad-free. Continue Reading
Pandora is now testing tools to brings interactive voice advertisements to mobile. The audio company is trialing this technology with several major brands: Doritos, Ashley HomeStores, Unilever, Wendy’s, Turner Broadcasting, Comcast, and Nestle. Continue Reading
Omny Studio announced that it has updated its embeddable player with support for multiple languages. The company’s podcast player will now automatically translate text to match the default language of a user’s web browser. Continue Reading
Sony Music UK has promoted Adam Cardew for a newly-created post, vice president of podcasting and creative strategy. After acting as a digital director, Cardew’s new position will see him leading the podcast division’s growth, including launching a series of innovative, artist-led shows. Continue Reading
Amazon has hired Rocío Guerrero as its global head of Latin music. She will develop and lead Amazon Music’s growth strategy to expand into Latin audiences. Guerrero joins the company after time working at Warner Music Latin and Spotify. Continue Reading
ART19, the podcast technology and advertiser services company, has announced an ambitious and acquisitive move into South Korea, a country with 51-million people who are more engaged with podcasts than any other national population in the world. One acquisition, four exclusive agreements, and a new company. Continue Reading
Streaming audio service Deezer announced that it has partnered with Facebook’s Portal TV platform. Last fall, the social media company introduced a dedicated video calling device, and now has expanded its hardware efforts to include this smart TV. Continue Reading
Napster has entered a partnership with Super Hi-Fi, an artificial intelligence company that offers tools to improve audio transitions and customization. The parties will collaborate to provide businesses with personalized music listening experiences. Continue Reading