Apple Podcasts got some exciting video improvements in iOS 26.4 this week, here are the new features included in the update.
iOS 26.4 gives Apple Podcasts a major video overhaul
Video has technically been available in Apple Podcasts for many years—but most podcasts never supported it.
Recently though, the popularity of video podcasts has soared on platforms like YouTube and Spotify. And in iOS 26.4, Apple has launched an all-new video experience in its Podcasts app too.
Video podcasts in iOS 26.4 offer the following features:
- You can switch seamlessly between video and audio with one tap
- Videos can be downloaded for offline playback
- Picture-in-Picture is available on iPhone, iPad, and more
- Playback speed for video can be adjusted up to 2x
- Transcripts still offered for video and audio
- New video hub debuts for podcast discovery
Some of these features are brand new, while others were available previously—but since so few podcasts offered video before, they’ll all feel new for users.
My experience with video podcasts in iOS 26.4 so far
I’ve been using the new video experience in Apple Podcasts for a few days, and it’s been pretty strong.
I love being able to switch easily between video and audio. There’s a prominent ‘Turn Video On / Turn Video Off’ button right below the playback bar. And the ability to have automatic video downloads makes it more likely I’ll opt for video.
Picture-in-Picture makes video podcasts a lot more appealing to me too.
Historically I’ve always listened to podcasts while multitasking. As a result, I rarely want to sit and dedicate my full focus to watching a video podcast. But if I can keep the show running in a small window on my iPhone or iPad while doing other things, then video makes a lot more sense.
I’m glad that playback speed is still adjustable with video, and that transcripts—one of my favorite Apple Podcasts features—are supported too.
Inside the Podcasts’ app’s ‘New’ tab, you’ll see prominent links to the Video hub at the top. There’s definitely been a big increase of new video shows with iOS 26.4’s launch. My hope is that the momentum doesn’t fizzle out fast, with podcasters content to only offer video on YouTube.
Other than wanting to see more video shows debut, my only other request is that the new video experience comes to tvOS too. Apple TV 4K is a no-brainer for supporting the new video features, so hopefully in tvOS 26.5 or tvOS 27 we’ll see that happen.
What do you think of iOS 26.4’s new video podcast experience? Let us know in the comments.
Best iPhone accessories
- AirPods Pro 3 (limited-time $199 price)
- 10-year AirTag battery case 2-pack
- MagSafe Car Mount for iPhone
- Apple’s new AirTag 2 (1-pack / 4-pack)
- 100W USB-C fast charging power adapter
FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.
Comments