Do podcasts need video now Apple Podcasts update?

Last updated on March 7th, 2026 at 03:53 pm

Apple Podcasts video update what it means for your podcast strategy

If you’ve been in the podcasting world recently, you may have seen the news that Apple is bringing video into Apple Podcasts.

For many podcasters, this raises a big question. Does this mean every podcast now needs to become a video podcast? Not necessarily.

This update is interesting, and it could change how some podcasters distribute their content. But it doesn’t automatically mean video is the right move for everyone. This blog is based on insights originally shared in The Long Game, you can sign up here.

Let’s look at what Apple is doing, why it matters, and how to decide whether video fits into your podcast strategy.

How Apple Podcasts video works through RSS feeds

One of the most interesting parts of Apple’s update is how video will be delivered.

Apple is now supporting video through RSS feeds. This means you upload your episode to your hosting platform, and it distributes automatically to podcast apps, in the same way your audio podcast works today.

This is quite different from how many podcasters currently handle video.

At the moment, if you publish a video podcast on platforms like YouTube or Spotify, you typically upload those files separately. Your podcast hosting platform manages the audio version, while your video lives somewhere else.

That can mean checking multiple platforms for analytics and managing separate uploads for each channel.

Apple has taken a different approach. By allowing video to be delivered through the RSS feed, everything can stay connected to your podcast hosting platform.

In simple terms, you upload once and your episode distributes everywhere it needs to go.

Why this Apple Podcasts update is important for podcasters

Even if you’re not planning to start recording video, this update is still worth paying attention to. The biggest benefit is workflow.

When video is distributed through RSS, it keeps everything organised in one place. Your hosting platform becomes the central hub for your podcast content.

That means:

• You upload your episode once
• Your podcast distributes automatically
• Your statistics stay together
• Your workflow remains simple

For podcasters who already create video episodes, this could make their process much easier.

Instead of managing multiple uploads and tracking analytics across different platforms, everything can remain connected to the podcast itself.

Your podcast stays your podcast, rather than becoming a collection of separate uploads across the internet.

Why audio podcasts still work incredibly well

Whenever a big platform introduces video features, it’s easy to feel like audio podcasting might become less important. But audio still offers something powerful.

One of the reasons many people love podcasting is the freedom it creates. You can focus entirely on the conversation and the message without worrying about lighting, cameras, or how you appear on screen.

Audio also fits naturally into people’s lives.

Listeners tune in while driving, walking, cooking, exercising, or doing everyday tasks. That accessibility is part of what makes podcasting such a strong medium for building connection and trust.

For many podcasters, audio already does exactly what they need. It allows them to share valuable ideas, build authority in their space, and create meaningful relationships with their audience.

So while video may become easier to distribute, it doesn’t mean it’s automatically the best choice for every show.

Should you add video to your podcast

Whenever new features appear in the podcasting world, it’s helpful to pause before changing your strategy.

Instead of asking whether you can add video, it’s more useful to ask whether you should. Before deciding to add video to your podcast, consider a few important questions.

• Does video support your business goals?
• Would it strengthen your authority in your industry?
• Would it help your audience connect with you more quickly?
• Or would it simply add pressure and complexity to something that already feels full-on?

For some podcasters, video will feel like a natural next step. For others, audio will continue to be the best format for their content and lifestyle.

There isn’t a universal answer, and that’s okay.

How podcast hosting platforms may change with video

Another factor to keep in mind is the technical side of hosting video content.

Video files are significantly larger than audio files. They require more storage space and use more bandwidth when they’re downloaded or streamed.

Because of this, it’s very possible that podcast hosting subscriptions could increase over time as more platforms begin supporting video through RSS.

Not every hosting provider supports this feature yet, but it’s likely that more will introduce it as demand grows. Here’s a list of platforms that currently support video.

For podcasters, this simply means keeping an eye on how hosting platforms evolve and deciding whether video fits within your workflow and budget.

Simple podcast strategy advice delivered every week

If you enjoy thoughtful conversations about podcast strategy and sustainable growth, you might enjoy my weekly newsletter, The Long Game.

Every edition shares clear, practical advice to help you build a podcast that supports your business, not just your download numbers. From content planning to repurposing, marketing strategy to mindset, it’s designed to help you stay consistent and confident with your podcast.

You can subscribe to The Long Game here.

Because podcasting isn’t about chasing quick wins. It’s about building something that grows steadily over time.

Work with a podcast strategist to build the right podcast strategy

If you’re trying to decide whether video makes sense for your podcast, it can be helpful to talk it through with someone who understands both the technical and strategic sides of podcasting.

Through podcast strategy sessions, launch support, and podcast management, I help business owners create podcasts that align with their goals and fit realistically into their workflow.

Sometimes the best strategy isn’t doing more. It’s doing the right things in the right way.

Your podcast should support your business, not add unnecessary pressure to it. Book a call here.

Laura McRae
Podcast Strategist & Podcast Producer