What is Downloads?
A download is counted when a unique device requests an audio file from the podcast host. It is the primary metric used to measure the size and popularity of a podcast.
Why Downloads Matters for Podcasters
While 'streams' are common in music, 'downloads' are the standard metric in podcasting. Technically, even when a user presses 'play' on a web player, the device is downloading the file progressively to the browser cache, so it counts as a download. However, not all downloads are equal. The IAB (Interactive Advertising Bureau) has set strict standards to filter out bots, duplicate requests (like a watch and a phone downloading the same file), and super-short listens (under 60 seconds). Because of this, raw server logs often show higher numbers than IAB-certified hosting analytics. Downloads are the main number sponsors look at to determine CPM rates.
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Try Analytics Dashboard →Related Terms
Audiogram
An audiogram is a short video clip that combines audio from your podcast with a visual waveform and your cover art, creating shareable social media content that promotes your show.
Waveform
A waveform is a visual representation of audio that shows the amplitude (loudness) of sound over time. In podcasting, waveforms are used in audiograms and editing software to visualize audio.
Show Notes
Show notes are written summaries or bullet points that accompany each podcast episode, typically including key topics, guest information, timestamps, and links to resources mentioned in the episode.
RSS Feed
An RSS feed is a standardized XML file that contains information about your podcast episodes, including titles, descriptions, audio file URLs, and publication dates. It's how podcast directories and apps discover and update your show.