Apple Launches HLS Video Podcasts with Picture-in-Picture and Offline Download
Apple will roll out an integrated video podcast experience in spring on its Apple Podcasts app, adding picture-in-picture support and offline video downloads. The update introduces HLS streaming for adaptive playback and dynamic ad insertion, with Apple collecting impression-based fees while hosting partners like Acast and SiriusXM enable HLS video.
1. New Video Podcast Feature
Apple is set to introduce an integrated video podcast experience this spring within the Apple Podcasts app. The update delivers picture-in-picture support, offline video downloads, and shifts from basic RSS video to HLS streaming, enabling adaptive playback and advanced in-app controls.
2. Monetization and Partnerships
The HLS format supports dynamic video ad insertion, allowing creators to include video ads through participating ad networks. While Apple will not charge for content distribution, it will collect an impression-based fee, and launch partners such as Acast, ART19, Omny Studio and SiriusXM will enable HLS video hosting.