Podcast Management Platform Simplecast Acquired

In the US, audio entertainment company SiriusXM has acquired podcast management, measurement and analytics platform Simplecast for an undisclosed sum.

Featuring both an analytics platform and an audio toolset, MAE (Moveable Audio Engine), Simplecast allows podcasters of all sizes to distribute their productions anywhere, while understanding and connecting with their audiences. Through its audio analytics platform, the company helps users better quantify their listeners, where they are and where they listen; compare episode trends; and gain insights into which parts of a show are shared the most - with numbers audited and approved by the IAB Tech Lab.

Following the deal, Simplecast will be combined with SiriusXM's AdsWizz adtech subsidiary, to create a single solution for publishing, measuring and generating revenue from podcasts. Brad Smith (pictured), founder and CEO of Simplecast, comments: 'From the beginning, Simplecast's mantra and mission was to remain laser-focused on podcast creators - building the best tools for publishing and insights. The opportunity and alignment with AdsWizz allows our product - and our customers - access to a powerful monetization platform'.

Web sites: www.siriusxm.com and www.simplecast.com .