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This year, Apple bought Scout FM, a startup that used artificial intelligence to select and deliver podcasts to users, according to a new report.
Citing sources familiar with the subject, Bloomberg reports that Apple bought Scout FM earlier this year, although the exact date and value of the transaction was not disclosed. The company ceased operations after the purchase.
An Apple spokesperson confirmed the acquisition.
A popular app on both iOS and Android, Scout FM provided podcasts in a more digestible format. While apps like Apple Podcasts require listeners to select shows, the startup offered themed “channels” with custom curated content on a system that resembled terrestrial radio programming.
Like other curated content apps, Scout FM relied on user listening habits, stated preferences, and other metrics to create personalized podcast playlists, according to the report. According to a TechCrunch In a report published in 2018, the service was able to create a curated podcast station based on a few questions that were asked to determine user preference.
Scout FM initially took aim at smart speaker platforms and began life with experiments running on Amazon’s Alexa. The product launched with 30 Alexa skills, including a “Game of Thrones” themed radio station. Applications for iOS and Android followed.
News of Apple’s Scout FM purchase comes as competitors in the digital content market ramp up their own podcast offerings. Music streaming leader Spotify, for example, is rapidly building its podcast library and has landed exclusive deals with popular broadcasters, including Joe Rogan.
Apple was a major force in the podcasting establishment more than a decade ago (the term is derived from audio content created for consumption on iPod). After leaving the platform to grow organically, the tech giant has more recently shown renewed interest in the medium and is constantly updating its Podcasts app with new features.
In June, reports claimed that Apple was working to bring Apple Music-style “For You” profiles and additional content to its own app. It is unclear whether the rumored service incorporates Scout FM technology.
