TiVo has made itself a sort of iTunes Store for video podcasts with a new feature that allows users of its DVRs to download podcasts and RSS feeds from several major content providers.

The feature allows anyone, from major networks to individual content creators, to make Web-based H.264 video or RSS (Really Simple Syndication) feeds available directly to subscribers with a TiVo Series3, TiVo HD or TiVo HD XL machine.

Users can select video from any major podcast broadcaster (e.g., CBS, FOX, Oprah, G4) or set what TiVo is calling a “Season Pass,” which allows TiVo owners to have new videos downloaded automatically to their TiVo Now Playing List as those videos are published.

Users also have the ability to stream unique and niche content not listed by TiVo by simply entering the URL for a video podcast they want within the "Video on Demand" menu on their TiVo DVR.

"What makes this announcement unique is that everyone has the ability to publish their content to the TiVo DVR for users to watch on the best screen in the home, using open industry standards such as RSS and H.264 video," said TiVo senior director of broadband services Evan Young.

Broadband-connected HD subscribers can access this feature on their TiVo DVR starting immediately.

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