Apple introduces transcripts for Apple Podcast

Transcripts offer full-text display for each episode, making podcast more accessible and immersive than ever before

Apple introduces transcripts for Apple Podcast, an innovative new feature that makes podcast 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 Podcast 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 Podcast 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.

Availability

Transcripts are available with iOS 17.4 and iPadOS 17.4 for podcast in English, French, German, and Spanish, with back-catalog episodes being added over time. Transcripts can be accessed in over 170 countries and regions.