Blog Relations

Apple is using its iTunes directory to promote video podcasts with all guns blazing. There’s a podcast animation called Happy Tree Friends that it’s pushing in every spare corner, appearing under all sorts of searches. Not surprisingly, it’s adding on subscribers like crazy.

I understand that Apple wants iPod users to upgrade to the latest video ready version, but it’s tough on audio podcasters. An icon on an iTunes search is the most valuable piece of real estate we can own, and we are being pushed out. Indeed, it’s really hard to understand why iTunes shows up some podcasts and not others. It’s all done, I presume, on the whim of an Apple Exec. And on that lies your fate and future as a podcaster.

Personally, I still believe that it’s more natural to use an iPod for audio, and that audio is a great medium. Apple Execs will be shooting themselves in the foot if they ignore this.

But my top-tip to get to the top of iTunes right now is to launch a zany animation, with silly sounds and bad taste jokes. Apple Execs will love you and promote you like you were one of thier own children.