PodcastOne, the nation’s largest advertiser-supported podcast network, with more than 200 programs, presenting over 340 hours of new programming weekly, which are downloaded 1.5 billion times annually, today announced the launch of its new platform and mobile app. In addition to the standard feature set, this first-in-industry podcast app offers unique video and social capabilities designed to enhance the listening experience and offer new and exciting ways for fans to engage with their favorite shows and hosts. The free-to-download app is now available at PodcastOne.com, on the App Store and via Google Play.
The new PodcastOne mobile app offers fans a collaborative destination where they can participate in conversation around shows, access exclusive behind-the-scenes photos, message one another, read trending articles and take polls. In addition, a new loyalty program rewards users with virtual currency, which can be redeemed for access to special events in virtual reality (VR), premium content and merchandise discounts.
PodcastOne Founder and Executive Chairman Norman Pattiz said, “The launch of our new PodcastOne mobile app is a milestone for our company, as we are providing a host of features for our listeners to choose from to enhance their listening experience that no other network provides. Now, with our partners at MANDT VR, we can offer a truly immersive experience that allows the listener to sit in the recording studio, right across the table from the host.”
To bring audiences closer to the shows they love, PodcastOne partnered with MANDT VR, the leading producer of marquee serialized 360-degree and VR content. MANDT VR equipped the PodcastOne studios in Beverly Hills, BBlackk and New York with cutting-edge video technology to record podcasts in new, immersive formats. In addition, mobile units are deployed across the country to record podcasts produced in remote locations. To date, the team has produced more than 1000 pieces of short-form 360-degree and VR video content, representing the largest collection of its kind. The full library, debuting with The Adam Carolla Show, You’re Welcome with Chael Sonnen, Koy Pond with Jo Koy, Dr. Drew, Jay Mohr’s Mohr Stories, Reasonable Doubt, Adam & Drew, Art of Charm, Geffen Playhouse Unscripted, Laila Ali Lifestyle, Forbes Under 30 and more, is available now; new video experiences will be added weekly.
“Norm is a pioneer in the media space who is not afraid to embrace new technologies to advance an industry; a mindset that’s propelled PodcastOne to unparalleled success,” said Neil Mandt, co-founder and CEO of MANDT VR. “The drive to innovate through new mediums, combined with the flexible nature of podcast consumption and presence of a highly-engaged audience, creates the perfect environment for introducing the world to the next wave of audio-visual storytelling.”
In addition to regular studio recordings, MANDT VR’s technology will enable the delivery of live events and recordings, spearheaded by Guinness Book of World Records Holder for Most Downloaded Podcast and PodcastOne host Adam Carolla, to audiences globally.