Adult podcasts on iTunes could pose problems

Apple's emergence as a leader in podcasting may bring it more public scrutiny, as one report notes the availability of several "adult-oriented" podcasts on iTunes. Analysts say that the acceptance of amateur podcasts has inherent risks, and while users can let the company know if they object to certain content (as the company provides no specific guidelines), Apple says it tries to review as many submissions as it can for "really obvious" adult content, according to the Wall Street Journal report. "As podcasting reaches a more mainstream audience, the more risque audio shows -- and Apple's role in distributing them -- could come under greater scrutiny. Apple declined to say whether any of its users have complained about the adult podcasts, which can be downloaded by anyone regardless of age. The company said it could potentially pull programs that it deems too explicit, but declined to say whether it has done so yet."

Filed under: iPod, industry