youtube features upgraded for podcast listeners

YouTube is not just a platform for watching videos. It’s been used by millions of people around the world for listening to podcasts as well. To improve the user experience, YouTube has introduced some new features for podcast listeners. Currently, this feature is only available for those who have premium subscriptions. Over the decades, YouTube has become one of the best medium for podcasters. Even this update is a plus for them, as it has the ability to keep listeners engaged on the app for a longer time.

What is on-the-go mode?

on-the-go feature upgrade on youtube
Source: YouTube Official Blog

The biggest update is the on-the-go mode. It’s a special listening mode. When you turn on this feature, YouTube looks like it’s a music app instead of a video-sharing platform. You will not see videos at all. What you will see will be the images only. This feature is very helpful if you want to listen to the podcast while walking or doing a workout. Because you don’t have to find a place and sit there just to watch a podcast. Right now, this feature is available on Android phones. iPhone users will have to wait a little longer. Many users are already saying that this feature update feels much cleaner and less distracting.

What is the effect of “Auto Speed”?

auto speed feature on youtube
Source: YouTube Official Blog

The upgrade also includes a new feature called Auto Speed, which will speed up videos when they are played on YouTube. It adjusts the playback speed of the podcast independently. If the speaker speaks at a very slow pace, it speeds up a bit. When the speaker is sharing a lot of important information, it slows down. So you will not be spending time on slow parts. Even if you miss something important, you don’t miss anything. Unlike the normal speed button, this is not. 

There is no need to handle anything. The application will do everything for you. The Auto Speed feature has already been available on Android. It will soon be available for iPhones.

YouTube now recommends podcasts to you

YouTube is also adding a feature known as Ask Music to podcasts. This feature will help you in recommending similar podcasts or shows, whichever you like. It tracks your watch history and gives the best result. Just for an example- if you like podcasts or shows related to crime or politics, this feature will help you find the best content in that niche. 

This feature will act like a best friend who suggests the best music all the time. It enhance you listening experience.

How Does This Affect Podcast listeners?

YouTube music is a better platform to listen to podcasts.

These three new features make YouTube a better platform to listen to podcasts. Before this, there were some better apps for listeners, such as Spotify or Apple Podcasts. YouTube is progressing rapidly. YouTube is an increasingly popular platform for audiences to watch their favorite shows. These changes are a testament to the fact that YouTube is seriously considering podcasts. 

To experience these features, you need a YouTube Premium subscription. It will not be available to free users. It charges an amount for a Premium subscription each month. However, it could be completely worth it for podcast listeners who use YouTube on a daily basis. If you are already paying for Premium, please look in your YouTube app. The new features could already be available for you.

The Bottom Line

YouTube is revolutionizing podcast listening. The app is smarter and easier to use with the new On-the-Go Mode, Auto Speed, and podcast recommendations. The features will make YouTube the best platform for listening to podcasts. It’s no longer just a platform for watching videos. It’s becoming a one-stop for all types of content.

Premium subscribers: If you like, try out these new tools. But if you’re still running the free version, these are the features that could convince you to upgrade. Listening to podcasts on YouTube is now much improved.