4 Methods for Accessing Podcasts on My Smart Television

I enjoy podcasts, but I do not always wish to access my phone. Fortunately, I have discovered multiple methods to appreciate them directly on my smart television.

4. Installation of Dedicated Podcast Applications

I listen to podcasts on my smart TV by utilizing specialized podcast applications. I possess a TCL television operating on Google TV, providing access to numerous applications, including those specifically for podcasts, such as Honey Podcasts and Capsule Podcasts. I discovered these applications by conducting a direct search in the Google Play Store via my television.

Many popular podcast apps, unfortunately, don't have dedicated smart TV apps. Still, I've found great success by simply searching in the Play Store. If you use a TV with a different operating system, such as LG or Samsung, you can also access their app stores and look for podcast apps. I'm sure you'll find a variety of options to choose from.

3. Using YouTube to Watch Podcast Episodes

Another way I listen to podcasts on my smart TV is through the YouTube app. YouTube is a video site, of course, but many podcasts have also embraced the platform and regularly upload full video or audio versions of their episodes. Video works great, especially for shows that lean into visual storytelling, like interviews, and that has made YouTube a kind of universal hub for the format.

As a result, YouTube is filled with podcasts across a wide range of categories. You can use the search option to find out if your favorite podcast is available on YouTube. There's also a dedicated section for podcasts that you can view by opening the sidebar menu and navigating to More > Podcasts.

I appreciate that numerous creators on YouTube share brief excerpts or highlights from their programs. These bits are advantageous when I lack the time for a complete episode or wish to preview a new show prior to making a commitment. On YouTube, I can save a podcast to my Watch Later playlist or create custom playlists to organize episodes for future listening.

While YouTube serves as an excellent medium for viewing podcasts, I acknowledge that not all podcasts are available on the platform, rendering it an incomplete option.

2. Utilizing Streaming Applications with Podcast Repositories

In recent years, numerous music streaming applications have broadened their catalogs to incorporate podcasts. Amazon Music, Spotify, and Deezer are applications primarily recognized for music that now also serve as podcast platforms.

TuneIn is a live radio streaming application that provides podcasts alongside music and radio content. If you possess access to one of these applications, you may not require the installation of additional software or the inconvenience of casting from your mobile device.

The primary advantage of utilizing streaming applications is that, in contrast to YouTube, these platforms provide streamlined interfaces and intuitive navigation, akin to specialized applications. Consequently, it is expedient to locate new episodes or continue from my previous point. Certain services provide exclusive content unavailable elsewhere. Applications such as Deezer curate podcast playlists and suggestions in a manner analogous to their music offerings, providing an enjoyable means of discovering new voices.

I utilize Spotify as my music streaming application and frequently employ it to listen to podcasts. Spotify includes a specialized section for podcasts, facilitating the ability to remain informed about your faves and uncover new ones that align with your preferences, even when utilizing your smart TV.

1. Casting from My Mobile Device

Occasionally, the podcast I seek is not accessible on YouTube or any specialized applications. In such instances, I project content from my phone to the smart TV instead. I possess both an Android and an iOS device; nevertheless, due to my TV's lack of AirPlay capability, I utilize a Chromecast to stream podcasts from my phone. In Pocket Casts, one can cast to a Chromecast-compatible television by adhering to the following steps:

 1. Tap the three-dot menu in the bottom right of the player view.

2. Select Chromecast from the displayed sheet.

3. Finally, select your TV's name in the pop-up, and you're all set.

Alternatively, navigate to the episode's detail page and select the Chromecast icon located in the upper right corner. Pocket Casts also facilitates casting over Chromecast in its iOS application. If Chromecast is unavailable, consult our instructions on wirelessly connecting your iPhone to a television.

Although it may not be immediately apparent, accessing podcasts on your television is more straightforward than one may assume. I enjoy utilizing applications, whether specialized or not, to stay updated on my favorite programs. Nonetheless, I recognize that it is not feasible in every instance. Consequently, together YouTube and streaming applications, I also utilize casting.

Irrespective of your configuration, there exists a method that is appropriate for you. Experiment with each strategy to see which is most effective for you in most instances. Nevertheless, do not dismiss any strategy; it may prove useful in specific circumstances.