Digital audio compression is a technique used to reduce the size of audio files without significantly affecting their quality. By removing unnecessary data, it allows for faster downloads and less storage space on devices. Common formats like MP3 and AAC use this method to make music and podcasts more accessible to listeners. This process works by analyzing sound waves and eliminating parts that are less audible to the human ear. For example, it can discard certain frequencies that we can't hear well, making the file smaller. As a result, users can enjoy their favorite audio content more conveniently, whether streaming or downloading.