Apple Podcasts could soon get more video shows from Spotify-hosted creators. Later this year, Spotify for Creators and Megaphone will support Apple Podcasts’ HLS video format.
Creators who host with Spotify will be able to publish video podcasts to both Spotify and Apple Podcasts. This is without changing the setup they already use.
Below is what you need to know about this move:
What is changing?
Right now, the main update is about distribution. Spotify’s hosting tools already help creators publish to Spotify. The new step is that those same creators will also be able to send video podcast content to Apple Podcasts using Apple’s newer video system.
Spotify is also building support for monetization on Apple Podcasts video. Creators will not have to pick between reaching more people and making money.
A full rollout date has not been announced yet beyond “later this year.”
What you may notice as a listener
If this works the way Spotify and Apple want, the biggest changes for listeners should be simple:
- More video podcasts will show up in Apple over time
- Some shows may become easier to follow across both Spotify and Apple
- You may not have to jump between apps as often just to find the video version of a podcast
This does not mean every podcast will suddenly become video-first. It also does not mean every Spotify show will move to Apple Podcasts.
Creators still control where they publish. But the technical barrier gets lower, and that usually makes cross-platform sharing easier.
About Apple Podcasts
Video podcasts were already possible on Apple Podcasts before this Spotify move. You can access them using standard RSS feeds that are available through many hosting providers.
The new part is the growing support for Apple’s HLS video format, which is designed to give a smoother viewing experience on Apple devices.
At launch, Apple’s HLS video support included partners such as Acast, ART19, Omny Studio, and SiriusXM’s podcast tools, with more providers set to join later. Spotify joining that list brings in one of the biggest podcast platforms and hosting.
This will benefit you with more content and choices if you already use Apple. If you use both apps, it will reduce your need to keep switching apps to watch or listen to your favourite podcast.
What to watch next
The next big question is how many creators actually use the new support once it arrives. The tools are one thing. Real change depends on whether major shows decide to publish video to Apple as well as Spotify.