In the latest updates to iOS 17.4, iPadOS 17.4, and macOS 14.4 Sonoma, Apple has introduced significant enhancements to its Podcasts app. One of the notable features is the inclusion of transcripts for all podcasts available in the Apple Podcasts catalog. This feature is available for podcasts in English, French, German, and Spanish, expanding accessibility for users across different languages.
Similar to song lyrics in the Music app, accessing transcripts in the Podcasts app is intuitive. Simply tap the dialog button in the player to open the transcript, which scrolls synchronously with the podcast's audio playback. This seamless integration allows users to follow along with the conversation effortlessly. Moreover, tapping any part of the transcript instantly plays the corresponding audio segment, offering a convenient way to navigate through the content.
An additional benefit of transcripts is their search functionality. By tapping the Search button within the transcript view, users can quickly locate specific text within the podcast episode. This feature enhances the overall user experience by facilitating easy access to relevant content.
While recent podcasts now come equipped with transcripts, Apple is diligently working to extend this feature to older podcast episodes. It's important to note that the transcripts are generated using AI technology, which may occasionally result in errors and challenges in distinguishing between different speakers. Nonetheless, the transcripts offer a valuable resource for users, providing a comprehensive overview of podcast content.
With these enhancements, Apple is furthering its commitment to accessibility and user experience in the Podcasts app. Whether you're an avid podcast listener or someone seeking to explore new content, the addition of transcripts in iOS 17.4, iPadOS 17.4, and macOS 14.4 Sonoma offers an enhanced listening experience. Stay tuned for future updates as Apple continues to innovate and improve its Podcasts app.
(Featured image by iStock.com/microgen)
