Breaking AI & Tech News Analyzed

The LeadSpotify announced on Thursday that it plans to embrace Apple's HLS (HTTP Live Streaming) video technology, which Apple recently introduced on Apple Podcasts to enhance the video experience. The adoption means that Spotify-hosted shows will soon be able to distribute and monetize their video podcasts on Apple Podcasts, expanding creator reach without requiring any changes to their existing setups.Technical Breakthrough in Cross-Platform Video PodcastingWith the adoption of HLS, Spotify listeners should be able to enjoy a consistently high-quality video experience, no matter their internet connection. As Apple explains, HLS technology automatically adjusts video quality in real time based on network speed, whether users are on fast Wi-Fi at home or relying on cellular data. This means video podcasts will play smoothly with minimal interruptions, so there will be less buffering and fewer sudden drops in video quality.Platform Growth and Monetization ExpansionSpotify plans to roll out these HLS upgrades later this year and has also announced even more ways for creators to earn, including direct sales and new partner integrations. Additionally, Spotify is making it easier for podcast creators to distribute and monetize video content across platforms. The company announced that creators using hosting providers such as Libsyn, Podigee, Audioboom, Audiomeans, and Podspace can now publish video podcasts directly on Spotify and earn revenue through the Spotify Partner Program. This is currently live, following its announcement earlier this year.Industry Transformation in Audio-Visual ContentAs video continues to drive the growth of podcasting, Spotify's ongoing improvements help creators reach and engage viewers who prefer visual content, further strengthening its position in the evolving podcast landscape. Over the past few years, Spotify has doubled down on video, following its initial launch of video podcasts in 2020. Earlier this year, the platform further expanded access for creators by lowering the requirements for video monetization.Future Outlook for Podcast EcosystemWith the adoption of Apple's HLS technology and expanded monetization options, Spotify is positioning itself as a comprehensive platform for podcast creators. The integration of video capabilities across platforms is likely to accelerate the growth of video podcasting, potentially leading to new content formats and monetization strategies. As the podcast market continues to evolve, we can expect further innovations in how audio and visual content are consumed and monetized across different platforms and devices.

A recent survey conducted by the Football Supporters' Association has revealed that 91% of football fans believe the game is better off without Video Assistant Referees (VAR). The survey, which polled over 7,000 fans, found that the vast majority of respondents are dissatisfied with the VAR system, which has been in use for over eight years.The survey results show that only 2% of fans agree that VAR makes football more enjoyable, while 3% said it improves the experience of attending a match. In contrast, 81% of fans prefer watching matches without video technology. The survey also found that 96% of fans disagree with the statement that VAR decisions are generally resolved in a reasonable amount of time.While some fans approve of the introduction of in-stadium communication from referees to explain VAR decisions, other extensions of the VAR protocol were largely unpopular. For example, only 21% of fans agreed that VAR should adjudicate on whether corner kicks are awarded, a system set to be trialled at this summer's World Cup.The survey results may not necessarily influence the game's decision-makers, as competition organisers and big clubs are committed to the use of VAR. However, the International Football Association Board (Ifab) has announced a two-year review into the system's performance, which may lead to changes in how VAR is used.