Spotify is preparing to adopt Apple’s HLS video podcast technology, a move that should make it easier for creators to distribute video podcasts across both Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

HLS, which stands for HTTP Live Streaming, is designed to improve video playback by automatically adjusting quality based on a listener’s internet connection. That means viewers should get smoother playback, fewer interruptions, and less buffering whether they are watching on Wi-Fi or mobile data.

For creators, the bigger news is cross-platform reach. Spotify-hosted video shows will soon be able to appear on Apple Podcasts without creators needing to change their existing workflow. This should make it easier for podcasters to expand their audience while continuing to manage their shows through Spotify’s creator tools.

Spotify says the HLS upgrades are expected to roll out later this year. The company is also continuing to expand monetisation options for podcasters, including direct sales and new partner integrations.

Creators using hosting providers such as Libsyn, Podigee, Audioboom, Audiomeans, and Podspace can now publish video podcasts directly to Spotify and earn revenue through the Spotify Partner Program.

The move comes as video becomes an increasingly important part of podcasting. Spotify first launched video podcasts in 2020 and has continued to invest heavily in the format. The platform has also lowered the requirements for video monetisation, making it easier for more creators to earn from their shows.

For Spotify, this is another step towards making video podcasts a bigger part of its platform. For creators, it means fewer technical barriers, broader distribution, and more ways to monetise their content.