For some, Podcasts have been a permanent part of their daily lives for years, whether you are on the road, exercising or just relaxing on the couch. Traditionally it’s been about audio, but in recent years we’ve seen an explosion of video podcasts on platforms like YouTube. Apple now seems ready to embrace this trend in its own Podcasts app, so you no longer have to switch between apps.
Starting with software updates 26.4, it will be possible to watch videos in Apple’s standard Podcasts app, which comes at an ideal time. More and more creators and listeners are embracing video podcasts. Thanks to HLS technology, Apple promises a smooth experience, fully integrated into the app.
Video support via HLS
Apple introduces advanced video capabilities in the Podcasts app with their own HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) technology. This allows podcasters to upload video episodes in addition to audio, without the need for separate RSS feeds. The videos remain on the hosting provider’s servers, which makes dynamic advertising possible.
Video plays in inline mode or in full horizontal view, and you can also download episodes for offline use. HLS automatically adjusts quality to your network conditions for smooth playback, both on Wi-Fi and mobile data usage.
Disable video, audio only
Users can easily switch between audio and video at the touch of a button, without reloading. This allows you to play just the audio from a video, without additional data or affecting the listening experience.
The videos integrate perfectly with existing features such as personalized recommendations, featured Podcasts and category pages. You also work with familiar tools such as playback speeds (0.5x to 3x), chapters, transcriptions and improved dialogues.
For creators and providers
Providers like Acast, ART19 (Amazon), Triton’s Omny Studio, and SiriusXM (including AdsWizz and Simplecast) will support HLS video at launch. More to follow later. Creators retain full control over content and monetization, including dynamic video ads such as host-read spots.
Apple does not charge hosting fees, but ad networks later pay an impression-based fee for dynamic ads. Find more info at podcasters.apple.com, including how to integrate video.
Available from 26.4
Podcasts videos can be viewed on iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Vision Pro, and at podcasts.apple.com on the web. The function can already be tested in the betas of iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, macOS 26.4 and visionOS 26.4. The update will be available to everyone this spring.