CNET Video Programming and Podcast Guide
CNET provides a diverse array of tech-focused content, ranging from quick, studio-based short-form videos to comprehensive long-form productions. These programs are designed to keep audiences updated on the rapidly evolving world of consumer electronics and automotive technology. Most of this content is distributed as podcasts and is available for download via CNET, the iTunes Store, and the CNET Video app on platforms like Roku.
For viewers seeking a continuous stream of content, a 24-hour CNET channel is available on Pluto TV channel 684. This channel was established prior to the 2019 re-merger of Viacom and CBS, which made the two entities sister properties.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Key Facts
- Distribution: Content is available via CNET, iTunes, the CNET Video app, and Pluto TV (Channel 684).
- Format: Programming includes short-form studio/greenscreen videos and long-form packaged clips.
- Longest Running: The 404 is CNET's longest-running podcast, surpassing 1,589 episodes.
- Specializations: Dedicated shows cover specific ecosystems, including Apple (The Apple Core) and Google (Alphabet City).
Automotive Technology and Reviews
CNET offers several perspectives on the automotive industry, blending traditional car reviews with a deep dive into the technology powering modern vehicles.
CNET On Cars
Hosted by Brian Cooley since September 2012, this show focuses on the technology integrated into the latest automobiles. Episodes typically feature four segments, which may include Smarter Driver, Car Tech 101, Top 5, Car Of The Future, or contributions from XCAR.
XCAR
While CNET On Cars focuses on technology, XCAR, hosted by Alex Goy, highlights high-performance, classic, and unique vehicles. The show emphasizes the aesthetic beauty of automobiles through creative camerawork and delivery.
Car Tech
This series provides standalone automobile reviews hosted by Brian Cooley, Antuan Goodwin, or Wayne Cunningham. The brand has evolved from the 2007 Car Tech Podcast and the 2009 Car Tech Live.
Tech Ecosystems and Product Analysis
CNET maintains specialized programming to cover the dominant players in the tech industry and the hardware that defines the current era.
The Apple Core and Alphabet City
These two weekly shows serve as sister productions. The Apple Core, hosted by Vanessa Hand Orellana, covers news, rumors, and reviews within the Apple ecosystem. Alphabet City, hosted by Iyaz Akhtar, provides similar coverage for all things Google.
Product Deep Dives
- Adventures in Tech: Hosted by Luke Westaway, this show analyzes revolutionary tech products and the reasons behind their success or failure.
- Cracking Open: Bill Detwiler takes gadgets apart to examine their internal components and workings.
- First Look: CNET editors provide initial hands-on demonstrations of new gadgets.
- Prizefight: Hosted by Brian Tong (formerly Veronica Belmont), this show features a panel of editors comparing two current gadgets.
- Next Big Thing: Premiering September 12, 2013, and hosted by Brian Cooley, this program is dedicated to future technology.
News, Tutorials, and Culture
Beyond product reviews, CNET produces content focused on daily news, user education, and tech culture.
The 404
Operating under the slogan "High Tech, Low Brow," The 404 is a weekly talk show covering tech news and pop culture. Hosted by Jeff Bakalar and Russ Frushtick, it broadcasts from the CBS studios in New York City. Since its launch in November 2007, it has become CNET's longest-running podcast, surpassing 1,589 episodes in December 2014. While it previously featured a live daily format and video elements, it returned to its audio-only roots in 2015.
Educational Content
CNET provides various instructional resources for users:
- How To: Hosted by editors including Sharon Profis, Donald Bell, and Dan Graziano, this show offers DIY instructions for common computer tasks. It was previously known as Hacks and Insider Secrets.
- The Fix: A themed how-to show hosted by Donald Bell, Sharon Profis, and Eric Franklin that focuses on a single topic per episode.
General News and Trends
- News: Typically hosted by Sumi Das and Kara Tsuboi, delivering important stories with expert commentary.
- CNET Top 5: A countdown of consumer electronics trends. It has been hosted by Tom Meritt, Brian Cooley, Donald Bell, and Iyaz Akhtar.
- Crave: A Friday show hosted by Steven Beacham that highlights content from Crave, The Gadget Blog.
CNET Programming Summary
| Show Name | Primary Focus | Key Host(s) |
|---|---|---|
| The 404 | Tech News & Pop Culture | Jeff Bakalar, Russ Frushtick |
| CNET On Cars | Automotive Technology | Brian Cooley |
| The Apple Core | Apple Ecosystem | Vanessa Hand Orellana |
| Alphabet City | Google Ecosystem | Iyaz Akhtar |
| XCAR | High-Performance Cars | Alex Goy |
| How To / The Fix | DIY Tech Instructions | Various Editors |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I watch or listen to CNET shows?
CNET programming is available as podcasts on CNET and the iTunes Store, via the CNET Video app (including Roku), and through a 24-hour channel on Pluto TV channel 684.
What is the difference between CNET On Cars and XCAR?
CNET On Cars focuses specifically on the technology integrated into vehicles, whereas XCAR focuses on the beauty and performance of high-performance, classic, and unique automobiles.
Which is the longest-running podcast at CNET?
The 404 is the longest-running podcast, having surpassed the record previously held by Buzz Out Loud after its 1,589th episode in December 2014.
What shows cover specific tech companies?
The Apple Core focuses on everything related to Apple, while Alphabet City covers news and reviews regarding Google.
Does CNET offer instructional content?
Yes, CNET provides DIY instructions through the How To series (formerly Hacks and Insider Secrets) and The Fix, as well as instructional videos on YouTube.