Podcasts apps make their way back to iTunes

Podcasts apps make their way back to iTunes
Podcast applications have made their way back to iTunes.When users type "podcast" or "podcasts" into Apple's desktop iTunes application, they'll find a full listing of programs that allow users to subscribe and listen to audio and video podcasts.Apple's store surprised some searchers yesterday when only the iPhone maker's official Podcasts app was displayed after inputting those queries into the program. Upon searching for the same queries on the iPhone or iPad, all available apps were listed.It's not immediately clear when the podcasts apps listing was restored or what might have caused the omission of third-party search results.Apple launched its standalone app for podcasts back in June. The program allows users to both listen and subscribe to audio and video podcasts.Debate rages over the quality of Apple's Podcasts app. In a posting on the topic back in June, CNET writer Rick Broida offered up three apps that might do a better job handling user podcasts: Downcast, Instacast, and Stitcher Radio.CNET has contacted Apple for comment on the change. We will update this story when we have more information.