Apple's Podcasts app now supports HTTP Live Streaming video technology

Source: Engadget

Overview

Apple is planning a major update for its Podcasts app. The app now supports the company’s HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) video technology. Previously, it only streamed video in formats such as MOV, MP4, and M4V.

Benefits

• Seamless switching between watching and listening.
• Horizontal full‑screen display option.
• Ability to download both video and audio streams for offline viewing, which was not possible with the previous RSS‑based streaming method. RSS remains an available distribution option, but HLS offers clear advantages.

New Features

• Picture‑in‑picture integration for multitasking on devices like the iPad.
• Automatic picture‑quality adjustment to ensure smooth playback under varying network conditions, including Wi‑Fi and cellular.

Availability

The update will be available on iOS, iPadOS, visionOS, and the web. It is currently in beta, with a broader rollout planned for spring as part of the upcoming 26.4 operating systems.

Original article: Engadget