New podcast-related features for Apple's upcoming iOS 18 system update have been revealed.
The update, expected to drop in September, will include both new features and updates to existing protocols. These updates come at a time when the podcasting market is becoming increasingly competitive, with platforms like YouTube and Spotify also enhancing their podcast offerings.
By continually improving the Apple Podcasts app, Apple aims to retain its user base and attract new listeners looking for a robust and user-friendly podcasting platform.
One of the most notable updates is the introduction of chapter markers in the playback scrubber. Podcasts that include chapters will display these markers along the playback bar. This feature allows users to see and navigate between chapters directly from the scrubber, rather than having to open a separate chapter list.
Key Benefits: Users can quickly jump to specific sections of an episode, making it easier to find and listen to content of interest. The current chapter title is displayed above the playback scrubber, providing context as users navigate. iOS 18 includes haptic feedback when reaching a new chapter, adding a tactile element to the listening experience.
Many podcasts use time stamps in their episode descriptions to denote different segments. In previous versions of Apple Podcasts, these timestamps were plain text, requiring manual navigation. iOS 18 converts these timestamps into clickable links.
Impact: Users can tap on a timestamp in the episode description to jump directly to that point in the episode, reducing the need for manual scrubbing. This feature encourages listeners to explore different segments of an episode, potentially increasing overall engagement with the content.
Earlier this year, Apple introduced transcripts for podcasts, a feature that continues to be refined in iOS 18. Transcripts provide a written version of the podcast audio, making it easier for users to follow along, especially in noisy environments or for those with hearing impairments.
Benefits: Transcripts make podcasts accessible to a wider audience, including those with hearing impairments or non-native speakers. Users can search within transcripts to find specific content, enhancing the discoverability of information within episodes.
Sharing podcasts has traditionally been challenging due to the long-form nature of the content. iOS 18 addresses this by allowing users to share time-stamped links. When sharing a podcast, a banner in the share sheet will offer the option to start from a specific timestamp.
Usage Scenarios: Listeners can share specific moments of a podcast with friends or on social media, facilitating targeted discussions about particular segments. Users can also share timestamps directly from the podcast transcript by long-pressing on the desired paragraph, making it easier to highlight specific points.
The search functionality in Apple Podcasts is significantly improved in iOS 18. Previously, users had to complete their search query before seeing any results. The updated search feature provides real-time results as users type, similar to the search functions in Apple’s Music and TV apps.
Advantages: Real-time search results save time and streamline the process of finding specific episodes or shows. Immediate feedback from the search function enhances overall usability, making it more intuitive to discover new content.
Beyond these primary updates, Apple is also making various other improvements across its ecosystem in iOS 18.
While not exclusive to podcasts, the Apple Intelligence feature, an AI-driven tool, will enhance overall user experience across apps, offering smart recommendations and personalized content. This feature will initially be available on devices with M-series chips and iPhone 15 Pro models.
iOS 18 introduces extensive customization options for the Home Screen and Control Center, allowing users to rearrange apps, widgets, and controls based on their preferences. This could indirectly benefit podcast users by providing quick access to podcast controls and playback features.
The Notes app will support live audio recording and transcription, which could be useful for podcasters who take notes while listening. The Photos app has also been revamped, offering better organization and quick access to recent content, which might include saved podcast images and related media.
New topographic maps and detailed trail networks in the Maps app will be useful for those who enjoy listening to podcasts during outdoor activities like hiking. This integration allows for better planning and access to saved routes and offline maps.
For gamers, the new Game Mode minimizes background activity to ensure optimal performance. While not directly related to podcasting, it highlights Apple's focus on enhancing the overall media consumption experience on their devices.
