Apple is rolling out an updated video podcast experience in Apple Podcasts this spring, based on HTTP Live Streaming (HLS), enabling users to switch between listening and watching within the same show.
In the Apple Podcasts app, viewers will be able to move into a horizontal full-screen video view, switch back to audio, and download video episodes for offline viewing. Apple says HLS will also automatically adjust quality to match network conditions, aiming to keep playback smooth on Wi-Fi and mobile connections.
Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president of Services, said: “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.”
Apple says video episodes will sit alongside existing Apple Podcasts features including recommendations and editorial curation, with support also planned for Apple Podcasts on the web.
On the creator side, Apple says distribution will be handled via participating hosting providers and ad networks, with creators retaining control of content and monetisation. Acast, ART19 (an Amazon company), Triton’s Omny Studio, and SiriusXM (including SiriusXM Media, AdsWizz, and Simplecast) are set to support HLS video at launch, with more providers to follow.
For the first time on Apple Podcasts, creators will be able to dynamically insert video ads, including host-read spots. Apple says it will not charge hosting providers or creators to distribute podcasts on the platform, but will introduce an impression-based fee for participating ad networks delivering dynamic ads in HLS video starting later this year.
HLS video is available for testing in beta versions of iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4 and visionOS 26.4, ahead of the broader spring rollout across iPhone, iPad, Apple Vision Pro and the web player.
