• Spotify is launching video content from a select group of creator podcasts;
• YouTube already had podcasts with visual content, but unlike its competitor, Spotify enables users to listen to video content in the background while running other activities on their smartphone, even for free accounts;
• Last week, Spotify started rolling out new top and trending podcasts charts for 26 different markets, including two Latin American ones: Brazil and Mexico.

Spotify announced this Monday the global launch of its video podcast feature. Both free users and paid subscribers will now be able to watch the video content from a select group of creator podcasts.

This seems to be a direct response to YouTube, which already has podcasts with visual content. But unlike on Youtube, where only paid subscribers can listen to video content in the background while running other activities on their smartphone, Spotify claims that users will be able to seamlessly move between the video and audio versions, as audio content will remain to play in the background, using less data consumption, when you use other apps or lock your device.

The first version of Spotify’s new feature will host podcasts in English, such as Fantasy Footballers, The Misfits, H3 Podcast, and The Morning Toast. According to the company, all listeners will still be able to download the audio to their mobile devices to listen to shows on the go.

Video content will be available both on desktop and in applications for Android and iOS, in all countries where Spotify offers podcasts. “The new feature allows select creators to bring both audio and video content to Spotify, enabling them to connect more meaningfully with their listeners, expand viewership, and deepen audience engagement. It’s a way to enrich the audio experience—for fans and creators alike,” Spotify stated.