New iOS 17.4 Update Unveils Transcripts for Apple Podcasts App

Apple has rolled out its latest iPadOS 17.4 and iOS 17.4 update after a month of beta testing. The update introduces a host of new features including the option to choose your default browser, fresh emojis, and support for third-party app stores. Among these updates, Apple has integrated a new transcript option into the Apple Podcasts app, aimed at enhancing users’ podcast listening experience New iOS 17.4 Update Unveils Transcripts for Apple Podcasts App.

The new transcript feature is designed to automatically create a written version of each podcast episode shortly after it is published. This allows users to read through the text of an episode, and find specific phrases or words with ease. Furthermore, users can read and watch episodes simultaneously. The tech giant also assured that transcripts for older episodes will become available to users over time.

Podcasters who choose to create their own transcripts have the option to do so using RSS tags or within Apple Podcasts Connect for episodes exclusive to subscribers.

Apple’s senior director of Global Accessibility Policy and Initiatives Sarah Herrlinger, emphasized the company’s dedication to accessibility. She highlighted how transcripts enhance accessibility to the whole podcast experience of users.

The transcripts feature not only elevates the podcast experience by helping users catch every word but also assists in easily locating facts mentioned in episodes. The color contrast and font design of transcripts are specifically designed to enhance readability.

Explaining the significance of this addition, Apple stated that users can now access the entire text of an episode through transcripts, and also search for particular phrases or words within the episode. By tapping on the text, users can start playing the podcast from that precise moment.

The company has emphasized its efforts to improve podcast accessibility through the transcription option, including the color contrast and font design to make long-form text more readable. Additionally, Apple has made things even simpler for hard-of-hearing or deaf users. The company highlights that people with hearing problems don’t need to use the play button on an episode to read the transcripts.

The transcript feature is now accessible in more than 170 countries with the latest update but currently supports only German, English, Spanish, and French language podcasts. Notably, while transcripts are available, they do not provide translations between languages.

Users excited to try out transcripts on Apple Podcasts can download the iOS 17.4 update on their iPad and iPhone devices. This update represents a notable achievement in Apple’s continuous drive to enhance and innovate the podcast listening experience for users worldwide.