Castro vs iVoox

Castro is a podcast player for Apple devices, centered on a queue for adding, reordering, and automatically playing episodes. Queued episodes download over Wi-Fi, and users can listen offline, read episode transcripts, and sync across devices. Playback speeds are adjustable from 0.8x to 3x; Trim Silence can shorten total listening time by 10–20% without changing audio quality. Other listening tools include private feeds, podcast chapters, episode sharing, and per-podcast settings for auto-queue, audio filters, playback speed, and intro skipping. Users can import their own audio by adding files to iCloud Drive. Castro has a CarPlay app, while Apple Watch users can control playback and browse the queue. The listed platforms are iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and Apple Watch. The free plan is available, and Castro Plus adds advanced playback, sideloading, Night Mode, custom icons, and more. Listed subscriptions include $3.99 per month, $9.99 per month billed quarterly, $24.99 per year, and family subscriptions at $39.99 per year. Castro directs questions to [email protected].

iVoox is an on-demand audio service for podcasts, radio stations, and audiobooks, with apps for Android and iOS and access on the web. Listeners can play, download, and share thousands of titles free, and use personalized recommendations, custom playlists, and offline listening. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are supported. Creators can make and manage podcasts at no charge, then distribute them to Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other platforms with one click. Monetization options include fan subscriptions, advertising and sponsorships through AdVoices, iVoox Plus and Originals, dynamic ads, and an affiliate program. The Plus plan includes more than 90,000 exclusive episodes and audiobooks. iVoox describes its catalog as Spanish-language and its audience as listeners, creators, and brands. A free plan and free trial are listed. Paid options include a fan subscription at €2.99 per month, Plus at €9.99 per month, Premium monthly at US$3.74 per month for six months then US$4.99 per month, Premium annual at US$49.90 per year, and Premium lifetime for €149.99 once.