Apple CEO Steve Jobs has revealed more information about support for podcasting in the next version of iTunes 4.9.

Support for podcasts - downloadable 'radio' programmes or audio blogs - will be built into iTunes 4.9. Jobs described the technology as 'the hottest thing going on in radio' likening it to the effect that the TiVo has had on TV viewing (at least in the US - the best UK parallel is Sky+). Jobs noted that there are now more than 8,000 podcast, many in fact made by radio pros.

iTunes will have a new podcast directory with access to free podcasts through the iTunes Music Store.

'We think it's going to basically take podcasting mainstream, to where anyone can do it,' Jobs said.

Apple's first podcast will be a version of its New Music Tuesday email, which showcases new material on iTMS.

The BBC recently began making several of its radio programmes available as MP3 podcasts, though because of issues over licensing and copyright music shows are not among them. Broadcasts including Radio 4's Today Programme and In Business, Five Live's Sportsweek and documentaries from the World Service are available from www.bbc.co.uk/radio