Gargoyle,

I agree that the technology is not new - i think the thing that is new is the automation behind publishing an article and getting the mp3 file so that it has music, a commercial, and multiple voices. I don't think your friend was doing all of that.

This production makes the files easier to listen to and allows magazines like Technology Review the ability to podcast all their articles.

I agree with John - this process eliminates all the work required for a user. now i just subscribe via iTunes and no work is required on my part.