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Google is developing a possible podcast app called Shortwave
August 18, 2025
Googlefinally got around to releasinga standalone podcast appback in June (appropriately namedGoogle Podcasts). But there might be another Google podcast app in development.
The app – called Shortwavein this trademark filing– appears to be a podcast app with a focus on shareability. This makes perfect sense, as one of the best ways podcasts gain an audience is by people suggesting episodes to friends and family.
The description of Shortwave in the trademark filing is pretty vague, but seems to point exclusively to podcasts:
What’s interesting about the description is that it will be cross-platform for mobile phones, tablets, and computers. This also makes sense as people listen to podcasts on all manners of devices, not just their phones.
For years, the only way to listen to podcasts within a Google app was throughGoogle Play Music, which was a clunky and underwhelming experience. Google Podcasts is certainly a better solution, but the platform doesn’t offer much that other, already established platforms offer, likeCastBox and PocketCasts.
It’s possible that Shortwave could be the podcast app that Google needs to bring itself to the top of the fray. With the company foreseeing podcasts as beinga crucial part of the future spread of information, it makes sense for the company to work hard to get users addicted to using a Google-branded app to consume podcast episodes.
Until Shortwave makes its debut (if it ever does), give Google Podcasts a shot by clicking the button below. Also, don’t forget thatAndroid Authorityhas a podcast,which you can check out here.
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