Deutsch
Español
Français
Italiano
Nederlands
Polski
Português
Русский
Türkçe
Svenska
Chinese
MagyarApple Podcasts gets transcripts
Earlier this week, Apple Podcasts introduced a new feature that provides a more straightforward and immersive experience, namely transcripts. Although currently limited to only four languages, the ability to view the full-text display of each episode is certainly a welcome addition for many users.
In addition to being able to browse through the entire text of an episode, the transcripts feature also integrates text search (specific words or phrases), as well as the ability to tap on a certain part of the text to start playing from that point. Last but not least, each word is highlighted as the episode plays, just like karaoke.
The four languages that received this feature are English, Spanish, French, and German. The hardware and software requirements are not surprising, as any iPhone or iPad that runs Apple Podcasts on iOS 17.4 or iPadOS 17.4 should suffice. According to Apple, the new episodes will get transcriptions shortly after being published, while older ones will get the text gradually, over time.
Those looking for an affordable solution to enjoy their favorite podcasts can grab the renewed 32 GB Apple iPad 2010 (10.2-inch, WiFi only) for $210 on Amazon.
Source(s)
March 5, 2024
Apple introduces transcripts for Apple Podcasts
Transcripts offer full-text display for each episode, making podcasts more accessible and immersive than ever before
Today Apple introduces transcripts for Apple Podcasts, an innovative new feature that makes podcasts more accessible and easier to navigate.
With transcripts, users can read the full text of an episode, search the episode for a specific word or phrase, and tap on the text to play the podcast from that point in the episode. As an episode plays, each word is highlighted, making it easy to follow along.
“Introducing transcripts on Apple Podcasts builds on Apple’s commitment to making products and services for everyone,” said Sarah Herrlinger, Apple’s senior director, Global Accessibility Policy & Initiatives. “We are thrilled to make transcripts widely available for all, adding an additional layer of accessibility to the Podcasts experience.”
Transcripts can enhance a user’s podcast experience in multiple ways, helping them catch every word from their favorite hosts, learn a new language, and more easily find facts they heard on an episode. Users will be able to access an episode’s transcript from the bottom-left corner on the Now Playing screen.
Transcripts were built to strengthen accessibility. The font and color contrast were designed to make long-form text easier to scan and read. Users who are Deaf or hard of hearing are also able to access transcripts without having to press play on the episode.
Starting today, transcripts are available for English-, French-, Spanish-, and German-language podcasts on iPhone and iPad with iOS 17.4 and iPadOS 17.4. Transcripts will not offer translations from one language to another. Transcripts will automatically be available for new episodes shortly after episodes are published. Previously released episodes will be transcribed over time.
Creators who prefer to provide their own transcripts can do so through RSS tags or in Apple Podcasts Connect for subscriber episodes. Learn more at podcasters.apple.com/support/5316-transcripts-on-apple-podcasts.
Availability
Transcripts are available with iOS 17.4 and iPadOS 17.4 for podcasts in English, French, German, and Spanish, with back-catalog episodes being added over time. Transcripts can be accessed in over 170 countries and regions.
