Spotify to adopt Apple’s new video podcast tech, offering creators easier cross-platform distribution

In a significant move to enhance its podcasting platform, Spotify announced on Thursday that it will adopt Apple's HLS (HTTP Live Streaming) video technology. This integration, recently unveiled by Apple for its Podcasts, aims to improve the video viewing experience for users. With this new technology, shows hosted on Spotify will have the capability to distribute and monetize their video podcasts on Apple Podcasts, thereby broadening their audience reach without necessitating changes to their existing setups. The HLS technology enables a seamless viewing experience by automatically adjusting video quality according to the user's internet speed, whether they are connected via high-speed Wi-Fi or cellular data. This means listeners can expect a smoother playback experience with fewer interruptions and minimal buffering. Spotify is set to implement these updates later this year and is also introducing additional revenue opportunities for creators, including direct sales and new partnership integrations. Moreover, the platform is simplifying the process for podcast creators to share and monetize their video content across multiple platforms. Creators using hosting services like Libsyn, Podigee, Audioboom, Audiomeans, and Podspace can now publish their video podcasts directly on Spotify and earn revenue through the Spotify Partner Program, which is already operational following its announcement earlier this year. As the podcasting landscape continues to evolve, fueled by the growing popularity of video content, Spotify's enhancements are designed to help creators connect with audiences who favor visual media. In recent years, Spotify has significantly invested in video, initially launching video podcasts in 2020 and subsequently lowering monetization barriers for creators. As of November 2025, the platform boasts nearly half a million shows, with over 390 million users having streamed video podcasts on Spotify, underscoring its commitment to innovation in the podcasting arena.