Spotify testing video clips to accompany podcasts

Spotify has been stretching its definitions of a podcast with another new test. The streaming service is trialing video content for the Zane and Heath: Unfiltered podcast. The creators, YouTubers Zane Hijazi and Heath Hussar, will upload their recorded video footage to Spotify and the clip will appear for up to half of their listeners on the platform. The clips will appear in both the desktop and mobile Spotify apps.

The Verge reported on this latest test, speaking to an anonymous source close to the company. The source said that the videos will only be on three episodes of the podcast, and that there will be no other designations in the app that any video is present. The videos will reportedly sync with the audio feed and will continue playing even if the user locks their phones. The video will pause on a static shot during any audio ad spots.

Spotify’s representative gave the usual comment about its testing practices and did not offer further insight on where or how it might expand video content for podcasters or musicians. “At Spotify, we routinely conduct a number of tests in an effort to improve our user experience,” they said. “Some of those tests end up paving the way for our broader user experience and others serve only as an important learning. We don’t have any further news to share at this time.”

Anna Washenko