Apple unveils transcription feature for Apple Podcasts

Transcripts provide a comprehensive display of full-text content for every episode, enhancing the accessibility and immersive experience of podcasts.

Apple is launching transcripts for Apple Podcasts, a groundbreaking feature designed to enhance accessibility and user navigation. This feature allows users to access the complete text of an episode, search for specific words or phrases within the episode, and initiate playback from a selected point by tapping on the corresponding text. During playback, each word is highlighted, facilitating a seamless and easy-to-follow experience.

The introduction of transcripts on Apple Podcasts aligns with Apple's dedication to creating inclusive products and services, according to Sarah Herrlinger, Apple’s senior director, Global Accessibility Policy & Initiatives. This addition aims to provide a more accessible Podcasts experience for all users, offering benefits such as catching every word from favorite hosts, language learning, and easier fact retrieval from episodes. Accessing a podcast episode's transcript is conveniently located in the bottom-left corner on the Now Playing screen. The design of the transcripts prioritizes accessibility, with font and color contrast optimized for improved readability, benefiting users, especially those who are Deaf or hard of hearing, allowing them to access transcripts without playing the episode.

As of today, transcripts are accessible for podcasts in English, French, Spanish, and German on iPhone and iPad with iOS 17.4 and iPadOS 17.4. It's important to note that transcripts do not include translations between languages. These transcripts will be automatically available for new episodes shortly after their publication, while previously released episodes will undergo transcription gradually over time.

For creators who wish to supply their own transcripts, this can be accomplished through RSS tags or via Apple Podcasts Connect, particularly for subscriber episodes. Additional details can be found at podcasters.apple.com/support/5316-transcripts-on-apple-podcasts.