In broadcasting and content creation, a podcast autocue (more commonly known in American English as a teleprompter) is a device or software application that displays a scrolling script directly in front of a camera lens or screen. It allows podcast hosts and video creators to read their lines perfectly while maintaining direct eye contact with their audience.
The term “Autocue” itself originates from a UK-based manufacturer founded in the 1950s. It has since become a generic term across the UK, Europe, and Commonwealth media markets for any prompting setup. How Physical and Software Autocues Work
Hardware Prompters: A physical autocue uses a specialized piece of beam-splitter glass set at a 45-degree angle over a monitor or tablet. The text reflects off the glass so the host can read it, but the camera hidden directly behind the glass cannot see the words. Popular hardware choices include the Elgato Prompter, which integrates as a secondary computer monitor.
Software-Only Alternatives: Many podcasters choose a browser-based or app-based digital autocue, such as the built-in teleprompter in Async Studio or standalone mobile apps like Autokue. These apps place the scrolling text right next to the device’s built-in camera lens to simulate looking forward. Why Podcasters Use an Autocue
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