Apple Podcasts is now taking video more seriously, introducing several features inspired by YouTube.

      With offline downloads, Picture-in-Picture, and a dedicated video hub, iOS 26.4 transforms Apple Podcasts into a platform that creators can no longer overlook.

      For years, the Apple Podcasts app technically supported video, but it was largely unused. Creators overlooked it, and listeners forgot about it. Meanwhile, competitors like YouTube and Spotify built significant video podcasting platforms. However, this could change with the iOS 26.4 update, which Apple hopes will revitalize interest.

      In recent years, video podcasting has surged in popularity, attracting audiences to platforms that handle the format effectively. Though I use an iPhone, I opt to consume podcasts on YouTube and even briefly subscribed to Premium.

      Why did it take Apple so long to address this?

      Apple has finally recognized the need for competition, and iOS 26.4 reflects this shift. The update revamps the app entirely, primarily enhancing the user experience with a one-tap option to switch between audio-only and video modes, conveniently located right below the playback bar.

      Offline viewing is now available, which I believe is more important than it may appear. No one wants buffering interruptions, especially in areas with poor signal. The playback speed can now be adjusted up to 2x, allowing users to finish 90-minute podcasts in just 45 minutes.

      Apple Podcasts has also introduced captions for both video and audio. A newly created Video hub is now available in the app, dedicated to showcasing video content. Another notable feature is Picture-in-Picture, which enables users to reduce an episode to a floating window, allowing them to check messages, emails, or browse through social media simultaneously.

      Apple Podcasts is now looking for podcasters to engage with the platform.

      These enhancements genuinely make Apple Podcasts a more user-friendly option, but a critical question remains: is it too late for Apple to see success? The company has established a solid foundation, but it hinges on the participation from podcasters and creators.

      Many have already committed to YouTube, earning sufficient revenues from ads or brand partnerships. If this trend continues, the Video hub on Apple Podcasts risks becoming an empty space, which I sincerely hope does not happen.

      For over five years, Shikhar has consistently simplified developments in consumer technology.

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