Spotify adopts Apple HLS for video podcasts

Carmen López · 2026-05-15

Spotify is making a big move in the video podcast space. The streaming giant has adopted Apple's HLS (HTTP Live Streaming) technology for its video podcast offerings. This is a significant shift that could change how creators and listeners experience video content on the platform. ### What is HLS and why does it matter? HLS is Apple's streaming protocol that's been around for years. It's the gold standard for delivering video over the internet. The tech chops up video into small chunks and delivers them based on your connection speed. So if you're on a shaky 5G signal in downtown Manhattan, you still get a smooth stream. If you're on gigabit fiber at home, you get crystal-clear 4K. For podcasters, this means their video shows will load faster and buffer less. For listeners, it means a better experience whether you're on a phone, tablet, or laptop. And for Spotify, it positions them to compete more directly with YouTube, which has dominated video podcasting for years.  ### How this changes the game for creators Video podcasting has exploded in the last few years. But one of the biggest headaches has been inconsistent playback quality. Different devices, different browsers, different internet speeds - it's a mess. HLS solves that by adapting in real time. - **Better quality control:** HLS adjusts video quality automatically based on the viewer's connection. - **Wider device support:** It works across Apple devices, Android, and web browsers. - **Lower bandwidth costs:** Because HLS only sends the video chunks needed, it reduces data waste. For creators, this means they don't have to worry about encoding their video for every possible device. Spotify handles that in the background. That's a huge time saver.  ### What this means for listeners If you're a podcast listener who loves video shows, this is good news. You'll notice faster load times and fewer annoying pauses where the video freezes. The audio will stay in sync with the video, which has been a common complaint. Spotify is also rolling out features like video playback in the background - so you can keep listening even when you switch apps. That's something Apple Podcasts has had for a while, but it's new for Spotify's video content. ### The bigger picture for podcasting This isn't just a technical update. It's a strategic move. By adopting HLS, Spotify is signaling that video podcasts are a priority. They're investing in the infrastructure needed to make video a first-class citizen on their platform. Some industry watchers think this could push more creators to produce video versions of their shows. After all, if the tech works smoothly, why not? And for advertisers, video opens up new opportunities for visual ads and product placements. ### What's next? Spotify hasn't announced a specific rollout date, but the adoption is happening now. Expect to see improvements in video quality over the next few months. If you're a creator, now might be the time to start planning your video podcast strategy. One thing's for sure: the lines between audio and video podcasting are blurring fast. And with Spotify backing HLS, the experience is only going to get better.