Executive Summary

The podcasting landscape is set for significant evolution in 2026, driven by major platforms embracing video content through open standards and enhancing discovery for audio-first creators. iHeartRadio plans to integrate video podcasts via standard RSS feeds, a move toward "properly open podcasting," though this is tempered by its own exclusive content deals with platforms like Netflix. Concurrently, YouTube is committing resources to improve search, discovery, and the listening experience, specifically targeting the needs of audio-first podcasters. Meta is re-entering the space with new features on its Threads platform, but its brief and ultimately abandoned foray into Facebook podcasting from 2021-2022 serves as a cautionary tale regarding platform commitment.

Industry commentary points to a transformative period, with predictions of an "HBO of podcasting" emerging—a force that will innovate beyond the current state of the medium. This push for evolution coexists with a fundamental debate over the industry's core terminology, as some argue the word 'podcast' is becoming meaningless. Meanwhile, the sector demonstrates robust community engagement, evidenced by a German podcast raising over €1.1 million at a 10th-anniversary event, and continues to see growth in specialized verticals like women's sports.

I. Major Platform Strategies and Developments

A. iHeartRadio's Embrace of Open Video Podcasting

In a significant move toward integrating video with open podcasting standards, iHeartRadio has announced that its US app will support video podcasts in early 2026.

• Open Distribution Model: The company stated, "Creators will be able to upload their podcast episodes, including full-length video versions, through their standard RSS feeds for seamless distribution in iHeartRadio." This approach signifies a commitment to open standards, as it will not require creators to host their video content directly on iHeart's platform.

• Exclusivity Caveat: This open approach is contrasted by iHeart's own content strategy. The company recently signed an exclusivity deal with Netflix, meaning some of iHeart's own video podcasts will not be available in video format on the iHeartRadio app itself.

B. YouTube's Focus on Discovery and Audio-First Creators

Steve McClendon of YouTube outlined key areas of focus for the platform heading into 2026, emphasizing support for a diverse range of creators.

• Enhanced Search and Discovery: McClendon confirmed that "There’s lots of work for us to continue to drive more improvements in terms of search and discovery."

• Support for Audio-First Podcasts: A particular effort will be made to support creators who prioritize audio. McClendon stated, "In particular, [for] audio-first podcasters, we’re thinking about ways to improve the listening experience, to improve nomination and ranking of listenable content broadly across YouTube."