Apple Computer Inc. on Thursday said iTunes podcast subscriptions topped 1 million in the two days since the company launched the service.

Apple included support for podcasting in version 4.9 of the popular music software, which shipped on Tuesday.

Since them, people using the free software have subscribed to more than a million podcasts from the new iTunes Podcast Directory. The upgrade has tools for discovering, subscribing, managing and listening to the audio files, which are available through professional organizations as well as personal websites. Content ranges from comedy and music to rants from individuals.

Podcasts can be downloaded from iTunes to Apple's equally popular iPod portable music player. Apple's Podcast Directory lists about 3,000 free audio programs, including ABC News, BBC, Disney, ESPN, Newsweek and NPR member stations.