Spotify is preparing to adopt Apple’s HLS (HTTP Live Streaming) technology for video podcasts, a move that could make cross-platform podcast distribution much easier for creators.
The update means Spotify-hosted video podcasts will soon be able to distribute and monetize content on Apple Podcasts without requiring creators to change their current workflow.
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What HLS Technology Brings
HLS is Apple’s adaptive streaming technology designed to improve video playback quality.
The system automatically adjusts video resolution based on:
- Internet speed
- Device performance
- Network stability
This helps reduce:
- Buffering
- Playback interruptions
- Sudden quality drops
For users, it means smoother video podcast streaming across both Wi-Fi and mobile networks.
Easier Cross-Platform Publishing for Creators
One of the biggest benefits is simplified distribution.
Spotify-hosted creators will reportedly be able to:
- Publish video podcasts across platforms more easily
- Reach Apple Podcasts audiences
- Monetize content without rebuilding workflows
This reduces friction for creators trying to grow across multiple ecosystems.
Spotify Expanding Creator Monetization
Spotify also announced additional monetization improvements.
The platform plans to support:
- Direct sales options
- New partner integrations
- Expanded revenue opportunities for creators
The company is clearly trying to make video podcasting financially more attractive.
More Hosting Platforms Now Supported
Spotify says creators using hosting services such as:
- Libsyn
- Audioboom
- Podigee
can now publish video podcasts directly to Spotify and earn through the Spotify Partner Program.
This support is already rolling out.
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Video Podcasts Continue to Grow
Spotify has been aggressively investing in video podcasts since introducing them in 2020.
According to the company:
- Nearly 500,000 shows now offer video podcasts
- More than 390 million users have streamed video podcast content on Spotify
The company also recently lowered monetization requirements to encourage more creators to adopt video.
Why This Move Matters
This isn’t just a technical update—it’s strategic.
Spotify wants to:
- Strengthen its podcast ecosystem
- Compete more directly with Apple and YouTube
- Become a major platform for creator-driven video content
Supporting Apple’s technology also makes the podcast ecosystem more interconnected.
Reality Check
Video podcasting is growing quickly, but creators should stay realistic.
Adding video means:
- Higher production costs
- More editing work
- Greater pressure on presentation quality
Not every audio podcast automatically benefits from video.
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Final Thoughts
Spotify adopting Apple’s HLS technology is a smart move for creators and listeners alike. Easier distribution and better streaming quality could help video podcasts continue growing across platforms.
But here’s the reality:
Technology alone won’t guarantee success. Strong content still matters more than format. Video can improve engagement, but only if creators actually give viewers a reason to watch instead of just listen.