Apple Introduces a New Video Podcast Experience on Apple Podcasts

New Video Podcast Experience on Apple Podcasts: A Defining Milestone for Content Creators

Apple has once again proven it’s not just about hardware; today marks a significant leap in the digital media landscape with the introduction of video podcasts. This isn’t merely a “next big thing”; it’s a fundamental shift that could redefine how we consume content.

The Journey So Far

Twenty years ago, Apple took podcasting to new heights by integrating it into iTunes, and over a decade later, it released the dedicated Apple Podcasts app. Today, this update brings video podcasts to a platform synonymous with audio content excellence. It’s not just about adding a video dimension; it’s about creating a seamless experience that elevates both viewing and listening.

Empowering Creators

The new feature uses Apple’s industry-leading HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) technology, ensuring high-quality playback across various network conditions. Podcast creators can now distribute their content through participating hosting providers like Acast; ART19, an Amazon company; Triton’s Omny Studio; and SiriusXM, inclusive of SiriusXM Media, Wizz, and Simplecast. These providers will support HLS video at launch, with more joining in the future.

Creators have unprecedented control over their content.

They can dynamically insert videos—including host-read spots—unlocking access to a broader advertising market while maintaining full creative control. This flexibility is crucial for those who want to integrate video without disrupting their existing audience or downlo.

Smooth User Experience

In the Apple Podcasts app, users will be able to switch seamlessly between watching and listening to shows. The experience of discovering and viewing video podcasts will be as simple and enjoyable as listening has always been. Users can watch videos from within the app and move to horizontal full display, as well as download videos for offline viewing.

Monetization Opportunities

Apple does not charge hosting providers or creators to distribute podcasts on Apple Podcasts, whether via traditional RSS/MP3 or HLS video. However, participating ad networks will be charged an impression-based fee for the delivery of dynamic ads in HLS video on Apple Podcasts starting later this year.

A Defining Moment

Greg Glenday, CEO of Acast, said, “Apple Podcasts is synonymous with podcasting itself. Bringing video to the platform is a defining moment—expanding what’s possible for creators, advertisers, and the medium as a whole.” This move by Apple underscores its commitment to innovation in digital media, making it easier than ever for audiences to engage with content across multiple formats.

The addition of HLS video podcasts builds on the incredible experience Apple Podcasts already offers. As a dedicated app designed specifically for podcasts, it allows users to explore millions of shows across hundreds of categories and customize their listening and viewing experience with features like Enhance Dialogue mode, playback speeds from 0.5x to 3x, automatically created chapters, timed links, and transcripts.

Starting today, HLS video is available for testing in beta versions of iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, and visionOS 26.4. The functionality will come to iPhone, iPad, and Apple Vision Pro users, as well as via Apple Podcasts on the web this spring.