It looks like Apple is getting ready to launch a new iTunes offering, and someone pulled the trigger a bit too early. TechCrunch has spotted podcasts branded “Spoken Editions” on the service, which seem to be short programs reading written news from select publications, so you can listen to them while doing something else, like driving or working. Apple has already pulled them all down, but not before TC saw Spoken Editions of Wired, Time, Mic, Forbes, Playboy and even of its own publication.
Apparently, when you look at a file’s description, it says it’s powered by SpokenLayer, a service that creates and distributes audio versions of the written word. That company’s CEO told TechCrunch that it specializes in making each publication sound distinct, in making their voices shine through in the spoken renditions of their pieces. Participating publications and SpokenLayer will split what they make from the podcasts’ audio ads. While you won’t find the files that slipped through anymore, you’ll be able to listen to them soon — TC says the offering will be available as soon as early October.
[Image credit: TechCrunch]
Source: iTunes