Apple expands video podcasts to compete with YouTube and Spotify

Apple is ramping up its push into video podcasts, signaling a stronger challenge to rivals YouTube and Spotify as the podcast industry continues shifting beyond its audio-only origins.

The tech giant announced that it will introduce a revamped video experience within Apple Podcasts this spring. 

The update will allow users to seamlessly switch between listening to an episode and watching it inside the same app. Viewers will also be able to download video episodes for offline playback.

Apple played a central role in popularizing podcasting through iTunes and later Apple Podcasts, but the medium has increasingly embraced video formats. 

Many creators now film their shows for distribution on YouTube and Spotify, where audiences have grown accustomed to watching hosts and in-studio conversations.

Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president of services, said the move is designed to give creators more flexibility and new ways to grow their businesses while making it easier for audiences to consume content in either format.

The update will also introduce expanded monetisation options. Podcasters working with participating hosting providers will be able to insert video advertisements, including host-read ads, opening access to a broader digital video ad market.

At launch, Apple will collaborate with platforms including Acast, ART19, Omny Studio and SiriusXM. 

The new video features will roll out across iPhone, iPad, Apple Vision Pro and the web this spring.