This may come as a surprise to some, but podcasts used to be an audio format first and foremost. But in recent years, video has threatened to kill the podcast star, as the formerly audio-specific medium transitioned to social media and video-based platforms. Apple, seen as one of the pioneers of podcasts, is now bringing video to its podcasting app.
A big reason for this is business-driven. Even Spotify is attempting to lure video podcasters to its service, reportedly offering more money than YouTube in the process. Not wanting to cede ground to its competitors, Apple is joining the fray.
When Apple’s updated Podcasts app drops as part of the upcoming iOS 26.4 update, you’ll be able to choose between listening to and watching podcast episodes that have a video component. Since iOS 17.4, Apple has supported in-app podcast transcriptions, so you can also read shows if you wish.
For podcasters, the video update will support dynamic ad inserts, in addition to an impressions-based payout for shows that rack up views. Apple recommends that creators use the HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) video format, which podcasters upload to a supported hosting service that can then be connected to Apple Podcasts feeds.
It signals a big change for Apple, which started its podcasting journey 20 years ago. Audio is still king, however, according to data from Deloitte’s Media & Consumer Insights 2025 report. Australians average two hours and 40 minutes of weekly podcast listening time, compared to 35 minutes of “vodcast” consumption.
For those keen to try out video podcasts through Apple, it’s available to test as part of the iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, and visionOS 26.4 developer betas. Everyone else can check it out when the functionality launches in full this autumn.
The post Apple to support video podcasts, meeting a major market shift appeared first on GadgetGuy.
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