Spotify Adopts Apple HLS Streaming for Enhanced Video Podcasts
Spotify has announced a strategic shift to adopt Apple’s HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) technology for its video podcast platform. This technical integration aims to significantly improve playback quality by dynamically adjusting video resolution based on users' internet connection speeds, thereby reducing buffering and interruptions. A primary benefit of this move is the streamlined distribution and monetization of Spotify-hosted video podcasts on Apple Podcasts, allowing creators to reach wider audiences without altering their existing production workflows. The rollout is scheduled for later in 2026. Additionally, Spotify is expanding its ecosystem support by enabling creators from third-party hosting platforms like Libsyn, Podigee, and Audioboom to publish directly to Spotify and earn revenue through its Partner Program. The company also introduced new monetization tools, including direct sales features and partner integrations, to help creators generate more income from video content. This development underscores Spotify's continued investment in video podcasts, a format that has seen substantial growth with over 390 million users streaming video podcasts as of late 2025.
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