How to download podcasts directly onto your iTouch or iPhone

I am addicted to podcasts. When I take a trip I am sure to add new episodes of my favorites to my trusty iTouch before leaving. Until recently, however, there was no way to update podcasts directly to your device without hooking up to a computer. Apple took care of that problem with its last software update.

Things You'll Need

• Apple iTouch or iPhone
• wifi or 3g internet connection
• iTunes account

Instructions

1. Make sure the software on you iTouch or iPhone is up to date. When you sync your device with your computer it will ask you if you want to check for the latest update. Download if necessary.

2. 

   Transfer an episode of one or two of your favorite podcasts to your device. Eject your iTouch or iPhone and go on your merry way.

3. 

   When you've finished listening to that episode and want another check the bottom of your screen and it will ask if you'd like to download more. If you are in an area with a wifi connection, it will then connect to the iTunes store and let you select an episode for download.

4. 

   Click the "Free" button next to the episode you want, then "Download" and that's all there is to it.

5. 

   You can also find new podcasts to download - that haven't previously been stored on your device -- but the interface is a little clunky You can look at lists of popular podcasts organized by category or hit the "Search" button on the bottom bar and type in a specific podcast. It's easier to keep a few of your favorites on your Podcasts menu.

Tips & Warnings

• There are many great podcasts out there -- nearly all of them free. My favorites are: Never Not Funny from Jimmy Pardo (this one is paid); The Bugle - Audio Newspaper for a Visual World by John Oliver (of the Daily Show); This American Life; The Sound of Young America; and E! Online's Answer Bi

• h.

• You must have internet access to use this feature.

• Podcasts may take a little longer to download than when connected to your computer

Resources

• iTunes store online
• My eHow & home blog