Apple Podcasts To Receive Auto-Generated Transcripts Feature (Image: Apple)

The number of podcast listeners worldwide is rising steadily and is predicted to increase even further. Meanwhile, tech giant Apple is all set to enhance the podcast-listening experience with the new transcript feature in its Podcasts app. Apple recently announced that the transcript feature will be available with the iOS 17.4 update.

“This spring, Apple is introducing transcripts on Apple Podcasts, making it easier for anyone to access podcasts,” wrote Apple on its support page. The transcripts will appear for podcasts in English, French, German, and Spanish. Apple also mentioned that the new feature can be accessed in over 170 countries and regions. With the new feature, the audience can read the full text of an episode and search the episode for a specific word or phrase. Users can also tap anywhere in the transcript to play from that point in the episode. Apple says that transcripts can also be accessed from the episode details page.

Apple will automatically generate the transcripts after a new episode is published. “There will be a short delay while we process your transcript,” added Apple. Notably, music lyrics will not be displayed in the transcripts. Apple also mentioned that transcripts are not displayed for explicit episodes when content restrictions are turned on.

At the same time, Apple recently announced significant changes to iOS, Safari, and the App Store impacting developers’ apps in the European Union (EU) to comply with the Digital Markets Act (DMA). This includes more than 600 new APIs, functionality for alternative browser engines, and options for processing app payments and distributing iOS apps. Apple said that the new capabilities will become available to users in the 27 EU countries beginning in March 2024.