{"id":107777,"date":"2026-05-15T12:35:42","date_gmt":"2026-05-15T11:35:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/routenote.com\/blog\/?p=107777"},"modified":"2026-05-15T12:35:43","modified_gmt":"2026-05-15T11:35:43","slug":"spotify-adopts-apples-hls-technology-video-podcasts","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/routenote.com\/blog\/spotify-adopts-apples-hls-technology-video-podcasts\/","title":{"rendered":"Spotify adopts Apple\u2019s HLS technology for video podcasts"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Spotify has adopted Apple\u2019s HLS technology for video podcasts, improving cross-platform distribution and streaming features.<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Spotify is introducing Apple\u2019s HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) technology across its podcasting platforms, including Spotify for Creators<\/a> and Megaphone. The move will help support video podcasts across more apps and devices, including compatibility with Apple Podcasts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Engadget<\/a>, Spotify\u2019s adoption of HLS means that video podcasts previously tied more closely to Spotify\u2019s ecosystem could now become easier to distribute elsewhere. Apple first announced support for HLS video podcasts in Apple Podcasts earlier this year with the release of iOS 26.4.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

HLS is a video streaming system developed by Apple and widely used across the streaming industry. It helps videos load more smoothly and adjust quality based on internet connection and device performance. Platforms such as Microsoft, Google and Twitch already use the technology, and now Spotify is moving in the same direction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For creators and listeners, the update brings several useful features. HLS supports switching between video and audio-only playback, allowing users to continue listening without constantly streaming video. It also supports offline downloads and dynamic ad insertion, which is important for monetisation and advertising. The move is significant because podcasting has traditionally been built around open RSS feeds. That open system allowed podcasts to appear across many apps without relying on a single platform. Video podcasts have complicated that model, with some services creating more closed ecosystems around their content.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Spotify\u2019s decision to support HLS could make video podcasts easier to distribute more widely. It may also reduce some of the barriers between platforms that have developed as video podcasting has grown. The move potentially raises questions around openness in podcasting, though. Engadget notes that \u201cHLS is proprietary tech that’s developed by Apple\u201d. Unlike traditional RSS feeds, which are open and widely accessible, HLS is controlled by a major tech company. As video podcasting continues to grow, this could give larger platforms more influence over podcast distribution and infrastructure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, there are definite advantages to major companies using the same technology. Shared standards can improve compatibility, simplify distribution and create a better experience for audiences across different devices and apps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Spotify also confirmed that more hosting companies, including Audioboom, Libsyn and Podigee, will be able to use its Distribution API for video content. This gives partners access to Spotify\u2019s video analytics and monetisation tools. Spotify added that \u201cAPI partners can choose which of these features they’d like to support in their platforms.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Despite the shift towards video streaming technology, Spotify says audio-only RSS podcast feeds will still remain available for apps that do not support HLS.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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How to upload Video Podcasts to Spotify<\/a><\/blockquote>