Apple is rewriting the rules of podcasting—again—with a video-first revolution that lets creators monetize their content while giving users the flexibility to watch or listen.
Apple Podcasts will introduce HLS video podcasts this spring, enabling creators to distribute video content with full control over monetization and ad insertion. Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president of Services, emphasized the shift:
"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" he said.
Participating hosting providers at launch include Acast, ART19, Triton’s Omny Studio, and SiriusXM (AdsWizz, Simplecast), with dynamic video ad support for host-read spots and sponsorships.
Users can switch between audio and video, download episodes offline, and access personalized recommendations within the app. HLS video is available for testing in iOS 26.4 beta; full rollout for iPhone, iPad, Apple Vision Pro, and web platforms will begin this spring.
Apple does not charge creators or hosting providers for distribution, but will charge ad networks an impression-based fee for dynamic ads starting later in 2026.