YouTube has added new podcast features for its Premium subscribers, including an AI-powered recommendation tool, an 'Auto speed' playback setting, and a hands-free listening mode for on-the-go use. The updates aim to enhance user experience by offering personalized content discovery and more efficient playback. According to YouTube, Premium users listened to over 800 million hours of podcasts in April 2026, highlighting the platform's growing engagement with audio content.
The AI recommendation tool will suggest podcasts based on genres, moods, or shows users already enjoy, expanding on YouTube's existing 'Ask Music' feature that creates personalized radio stations. The 'Auto speed' function adjusts playback speed during slower speech or information-heavy segments to improve listening efficiency without compromising comprehension. This feature addresses inconsistencies in playback speed when hosts vary their speaking pace or tone.
The new on-the-go mode provides quick controls for activities like running or commuting, allowing users to skip sections or jump to the next episode. These features are currently available on Android for Premium users, with an iOS rollout planned for later this year.
Source: techcrunch
