Apple Computer, Inc. updated its iTunes software to version 4.9 with added support for Podcasting.

The update is available for both Windows and Mac platforms and comes with pre-selected podcasts from publications such as ABC News, ESPN and Disney Online. These podcasts and others are offered free of charge to listeners.

Podcasting is similar to radio in various regards. The only difference, however, is that you don’t need professional equipment to make a podcast. Furthermore, podcasts are downloadable audio files that can be uploaded online by anyone for interested listeners.

Apple said producers can upload their own podcasts, but if they want to use music in their audio tracks, it must be purchased from iTunes music store.

The company has also introduced "Chapter Tool" which would let producers upload images and web links within their podcasts.