Cupertino / Tech News: Apple has announced a major upgrade to its Apple Podcasts platform that will bring advanced video podcast features to users this spring — a strategic move aimed at challenging rivals such as YouTube, Spotify, and even Netflix in the rapidly evolving podcasting landscape.

Video Podcasting: The New Frontier

Historically, Apple’s Podcasts app supported audio podcasts and allowed video via RSS feeds, but the experience was limited compared with modern video platforms. With the latest update, apple is introducing native video podcast playback powered by its own HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) technology.

This update will allow users to:

• Seamlessly switch between listening and watching within a single episode feed
• Watch vertical or horizontal video podcasts inside the apple Podcasts app
• Download video episodes for offline viewing
• Support features like picture‑in‑picture on compatible devices

Apple says this approach ensures smooth video quality by dynamically adjusting to network strengths, enhancing usability across iPhone, iPad, Apple Vision Pro, and the web.

Why This Matters in the Podcast Wars

In recent years, podcast consumption has shifted beyond audio. Reports indicate that platforms like YouTube have over a billion monthly podcast viewers, while Spotify and Netflix have also deepened their involvement in video and podcast content — including video podcast distribution through partnerships.

YouTube’s strong discovery tools and massive audience have made it a destination for podcasts with visual components, while Spotify has expanded video podcast support extensively and even struck deals to bring some of its shows to Netflix.

Apple’s new strategy aims to keep users inside its own ecosystem for both audio and video — reducing the need for creators and audiences to jump between different apps or services just to watch podcast episodes.

Empowering Creators and Monetization

A key part of Apple’s push is giving creators better tools and revenue opportunities. Under the new system:

• Creators maintain full control of their content
• Video podcasts can include dynamic video advertisements, including host‑read ads
• Apple is partnering with hosting and ad platforms like Acast, ART19 (Amazon’s podcast network), Triton’s Omny Studio, and SiriusXM to support video distribution at launch

Unlike some platforms that charge for hosting or exclusivity, apple does not charge creators for video distribution, though ad networks will be charged based on impressions.

Positioning Against Netflix and Others

Netflix has recently entered the video podcast space by offering curated podcast content on its platform and securing exclusive titles — signaling that streaming services see video podcasts as a new form of viewer engagement.

By integrating video podcast capabilities directly into apple Podcasts — already installed on millions of apple devices — apple is combining its device ecosystem with multimedia content experiences, a significant advantage when competing with standalone video platforms like YouTube and subscription services like Netflix and Spotify.

What’s Next for Listeners and Creators

The video podcast experience is currently rolling out via beta versions of iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, and visionOS 26.4, with a wider release expected this spring. Early access will be available for testing through Apple’s beta software channels.

For creators, the update unlocks new ways to monetize through video ads and expand audience reach. For listeners, it offers a choice between audio‑only listening and video viewing — all within the same app.

Bottom Line

Apple’s video podcast push marks a major evolution in how podcasts are consumed and monetized, positioning apple Podcasts as a stronger competitor in the multimedia entertainment field. By blending audio and video experiences and leveraging its ecosystem, apple aims to reclaim podcast market share from YouTube, Spotify, and even services like Netflix that are expanding into podcasting.

 

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