Apple has unveiled a major upgrade for Apple Podcasts that debut advanced video podcast support, set to launch this spring. The update harnesses Apple’s HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) technology to deliver superior video quality and creator tools for a pivotal evolution in podcasting.
Seamless User Experience
Users will be able to effortless switch between audio and video modes within the app. Videos support full horizontal display, offline downloads, and automatic quality adjustments for optimal performance on Wi-Fi or cellular networks. This integrates with beloved features like personalized recommendations and editorial picks on the New tab and Category pages.
Creator Empowerment and Monetization
Creators also gain full control over content and revenue with participating hosting providers such as Acast, ART19, Triton’s Omny Studio, and SiriusXM at launch. The Dynamic video ad insertion, including host-read spots, also opens new advertising avenues without disrupting existing audio audiences.
Apple imposes no distribution fees on creators or hosts for HLS video or traditional formats. Ad networks will face impression-based charges later this year.
“Twenty years ago, Apple helped take podcasting mainstream by adding podcasts to iTunes, and more than a decade ago, we introduced the dedicated Apple Podcasts app. Today marks a defining milestone in that journey. By bringing a category-leading video experience to Apple Podcasts, we’re putting creators in full control of their content and how they build their businesses, while making it easier than ever for audiences to listen to or watch podcasts.”
– Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president of Services
Enhanced Platform Features
Available in over 170 countries, Apple Podcasts offers millions of shows with tools like Enhance Dialogue, variable playback speeds, chapters, transcripts in 13 languages, and premium subscriptions.
Beta testing for HLS video begins now on iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, and visionOS 26.4, rolling out to iPhone, iPad, Apple Vision Pro, and web users this spring.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: When does the video podcast feature launch on Apple Podcasts?
A: The update arrives this spring, with beta testing available now on iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, and visionOS 26.4.
Q: What technology powers the video podcasts?
A: Apple’s HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) technology ensures high-quality playback with automatic adjustments.
Q: How do users access video features?
A: Switch seamlessly between watch and listen modes, view in full screen, download offline, across iPhone, iPad, Vision Pro, and web.
Q: What monetization options exist for creators?
A: Dynamic video ads including host-read spots via providers like Acast and ART19; no Apple fees for distribution.
Q: Which platforms support Apple Podcasts catalog?
A: iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, CarPlay, Vision Pro, and web at podcasts.apple.com.
Emman has been writing technical and feature articles since 2010. Prior to this, he became one of the instructors at Asia Pacific College in 2008, and eventually landed a job as Business Analyst and Technical Writer at Integrated Open Source Solutions for almost 3 years.
