Breaking: the hidden, built-in, podcast app in your Android phone

While testing Google Assistant on my Google Pixel phone, I stumbled across this - a built-in podcast player on Android phones. I’ve not seen this reported anywhere, so I think this is a first. Podcasts can be played without fiddling with subscriptions or downloads; and can be added to your home screen for quick access. It keeps note of which you’ve listened-to, across your different devices. Given that over 80% of mobile phones run Android, this could be a game-changer: if users are educated on how to use it.

Google’s “Google Home” smart speaker is launched tomorrow in Australia, joining the US and UK with the device. Stores selling it are JB Hi-fi, Harvey Norman, Telstra, and a few more places, at AU$199 (US$157, £120). (The price includes tax, and the Aussie dollar is currently unusually strong). It’s the first smart speaker to make it into the Australian market: Amazon are expected to launch later this year.

• Google Home launch partners are the ABC, Sky News, The Australian, the Huffington Post, and a few more.

• Testing on Google Assistant on a Pixel, “Play ABC News” appears to play the latest national bulletin. “Play the news from Sky News” links to a 90-minute podcast from the Australian news channel. “Play the news from The Australian” links to a two-day-old read news bulletin. “Play the news from NPR” does what you’d expect. “Play BBC News” gives the BBC Minute, a special bulletin for younger audiences. I can’t work out how to get the normal BBC World News bulletin.

HotPod 128 is out. This week, Nick looks at the business of live touring for podcasts. (Reading time: 17m 13s).

Podcast Movement is moving to Philadelphia. July 24-26 2018.

The CEO of Australia’s Crocmedia is interviewed by MediaWeek. It’s a company that produces sports content, and owns sports rights.