Spotify Acquires Whooshkaa, Now Radios Can Enter A New Era Of Podcast

JAKARTA – Spotify has reportedly bought another audio platform, and this time hopes to bring radio into the modern era. The streaming company has acquired Whooshkaa, an Australia-based company that offers tools to turn radio broadcasters' shows into podcasts.

Spotify, as Engadget reports, plans to integrate the technology into its Megaphone suite for podcasters with a clear goal: radio stations can better take advantage of shows by offering ad-supported podcast episodes.

Whooshkaa might also improve on some of Spotify's other endeavors. Founder Rob Loewenthal notes Whooshkaa also has speech-to-text (and text-to-speech) technology, smart home integration, and "enterprise-grade" podcasting tools.

Neither Spotify nor Whooshkaa mention using this technology to automatically copy podcasts or add podcasting features, but it's no surprise that some of this knowledge carries over.

The appeal of the purchase is clear. If Spotify can persuade more radio networks to offer podcasts, then Spotify can expand its catalog and attract more listeners.

Even if some of those shows become exclusives, Spotify could thrive as radio listening declines and more stations look for ways to supplement their usual on-air ads.