Add Podcast Feeds to XBMC: A Step-by-Step Guide
Accessing Podcasts with XBMC
XBMC allows you to enjoy your preferred podcasts, whether they are in video or audio format. From shows like Technophilia to other engaging content, XBMC provides access, albeit through a slightly unconventional approach.
Podcast Access Without Plugins
Interestingly, utilizing podcasts within XBMC doesn't require the installation of any additional plugins. However, the process isn't immediately apparent, and the official documentation lacks clarity on this feature.
A considerable amount of time was spent exploring various plugins that ultimately proved ineffective before discovering this native method. Sharing this information seems beneficial given the initial difficulty.
The Current Plugin Landscape
Currently, there aren't any truly effective plugins available for dedicated podcast management within XBMC. Despite this, a built-in functionality exists to both listen to and view podcasts directly.
Implementing this method will significantly enhance the functionality of your media center experience. It offers a streamlined way to incorporate podcast content into your XBMC setup.
XBMC provides a viable solution for podcast consumption, even without relying on third-party add-ons.
Integrating Podcasts with the Graphical User Interface
The primary method for incorporating podcasts involves designating the RSS feed as a media origin. This approach isn't immediately obvious to all users. The media source interface might appear intended solely for directory inclusion of local media files, however, this is a misconception.
Navigate to the "File" menu within either the music or video area of XBMC, contingent upon the podcast's format. Subsequently, select "Add Source." Rather than specifying a directory on your system, manually input the RSS feed address, prefacing it with "rss://" instead of the standard "http://".
Currently, direct URL pasting within XBMC isn't supported, necessitating manual entry of the feed address. Continue reading for an alternative solution if this proves cumbersome.
Replicate this procedure for each of your desired podcasts, ensuring both video and audio content are categorized appropriately. Following these steps, you can begin accessing and streaming podcast content through the "File" section at your convenience.
Modifying the Sources.xml File
For users who favor direct text file manipulation over graphical user interfaces, manual source addition is possible. The Sources.xml file allows for configuration of sources if you possess the technical expertise to do so.
The location of Sources.xml varies depending on your operating system. Here's a breakdown of the typical paths:
- Windows XP: Documents and Settings\Application Data\XBMC\userdata\
- Vista/Windows 7: Users\\AppData\Roaming\XBMC\userdata\
- Mac OS X: /Users//Library/Application Support/XBMC/userdata/
- iOS: /private/var/mobile/Library/Preferences/XBMC/userdata/
- Linux: $HOME/.xbmc/userdata/
After locating the file, you will need to insert the appropriate code. The following code snippet serves as a template:
<source><name>RSS Feed</name><path>rss://</path></source>
Within this template, substitute "RSS Feed" with the desired name for your podcast source. Additionally, replace "rss://" with the actual URL of your podcast feed.
It’s crucial to remember to change "http://" to "rss://" in the URL; otherwise, the source may not function correctly. Furthermore, ensure that audio podcasts are enclosed within the <music> tag, and video podcasts are placed within the <video> tag.
If this method seems complex, utilizing the GUI is perfectly acceptable. However, mastering this technique can offer efficiency gains for experienced users.
Leveraging the Favorites Feature
After incorporating your desired podcasts, consistent access is crucial. Utilizing the favorites feature streamlines this process, making your content readily available. Adding podcasts to your favorites is a straightforward action – simply right-click on the podcast within the "File" menu, or utilize the "C" key while it's highlighted.
Subsequently, select "Add to Favorites" to complete the process.
The scope of the favorites feature extends beyond podcasts. Virtually any content, encompassing shows and specific sections within addons, and even programs available on platforms like Hulu, can be added. This transforms the favorites menu into a central hub for all your media.
Final Thoughts
While setting up XBMC can present certain challenges, the benefits are considerable. Integrating podcasts is a prime example of this. The process proved more intricate than initially anticipated, yet the convenience of access achieved is highly satisfying.
It is my hope that this guide has provided a solution for those facing similar difficulties.
Share Your Experiences
We are interested in learning about the podcasts you enjoy consuming through your XBMC media center. Please share your recommendations and any additional insights you may have in the comments section below.
Your feedback is valuable and will help others enhance their XBMC experience. Consider detailing any specific configurations or resources you found particularly useful.
XBMC offers a powerful platform for media consumption, and community contributions are essential to its continued improvement.
