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You can now opt-in to Pocket Casts' open beta program
July 06, 2025
Even though Google launchedits own podcast application, Pocket Casts remains the top paid app in the News and Magazines section on the Play Store. Previously available as a closed beta, Pocket Casts announced the beta is now available for anyone and everyone.
To join the open beta program, visit thesign-up pageand click the “Become a Tester” button at the bottom. You also have the option to download Pocket Casts if you have not done so already. Once you do that, you should see beta updates immediately.
Funny enough, the first open beta update is already available. The update fixed the issues where podcasts change episode download URLs after episodes are released, bulk mark as played broke up the Up Next order, and the app icon dynamic top filter crashes if the title is empty. The update also includes a faster podcast refresh server.
Keep in mind that, whether closed or open, the beta is a slightly broken version of the standard Pocket Casts app. Updates should arrive relatively quickly to squash any bugs, though new ones will likely arise to take their place.
On the flip side, beta testers get early access to the latest features. Those features might include the striking Material Design refresh we saw in May, though Pocket Casts did not say when we might see the visual overhaul.
Pocket Casts also remained quiet on what features we will see following the company’stakeover in May. At the time, Pocket Casts CEO Owen Groversaidthe app will not harvest user data and not rely on advertising as another source of revenue.
Next:Google Podcasts: Everything you need to know
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