Apple developed the HTTP Live Streaming video protocol in February, and released it publicly via the March 24 update of the company’s iOS operating system (v. 26.4). The program allows podcast creators to create high-quality video podcast episodes directly within the Apple Podcasts app. There are features tailored to both listeners and advertisers:
LISTENERS: Users can toggle between audio-only and video without disrupting the audio flow. The quality is sensitive to bandwidth, and adjusted seamlessly when network conditions change. Also, video episodes can be downloaded for offline viewing.
CREATORS and ADVERTISERS: Creators can dynamically insert video ads, including host-read promotions. Integrated output allows podcasters to distribute both audio and video versions through a single feed.
It’s all free to start. Later in 2026 Apple plans to charge ad networks an impression-based fee for delivering dynamic video ads later this year.
