Audio streaming platform Spotify launches podcasts in video
By Poch Eulalia
Often, I enjoy listening to podcasts in the background while writing. Sometimes, I wonder what the people I’m hearing in the background look like.
For the longest time, I assumed Spotify was only meant for listening to music and podcasts. To my surprise, I recently encountered video podcasts on the audio streaming platform.
I was scrolling through my home page looking at some of the recommendations when I saw one from Hannah Pangilinan’s Pausecast with the words "" on the title. Sure enough, as soon as I hit play, I was greeted by Hannah and her brother Donny sitting on a couch.
This was when I found out that watching a podcast was even more engaging than simply listening to one. It felt more real and immersive like I could feel what the speakers were feeling. It seemed as though I was in the same setting, watching friends banter and discuss topics I found interesting.
Comedy podcasts such as Ang Walang Kwentang Podcast and OnlyFun with Chico and Gino are now funnier on a video format that allows visual gags. It is amusing to see how the hosts physically react to certain topics.
Filipino content creators from all sorts of backgrounds are already utilizing the feature made possible by Anchor, Spotify’s content creation arm. You could watch local Spotify originals and exclusives, including Wake Up With Jim & Saab where hosts Jim Bacarro and Saab Magalona converse about various topics perfect to start the day with or perhaps plunge into the disturbing world of true crime and paranormal activity with the show Creepsilog.
‘Innovations like this will inspire new genres and creators, pushing the podcasting industry in the Philippines forward.’
For those on the move, it’s also easy to switch back to audio mode. Through the use of the video-background play feature, audiences can continue to listen to podcasts without interruption.
Podcasts currently with video components are Superhuman with Wil Dasovich, skypodcast, The Sexytime Podcast, Boiling Waters, The KoolPals, Adulting With Joyce Pring, Sleeping Pill with Inka, Punchline with Alex Calleja!, Lecheng Pag-ibig To!, Paano Ba 'To, Wag Kang Lilingon, Creepsilog, Tambalan Podcast, OnlyFun with Chico and Gino, Small Talk! With Alec Cuenca, Walwal Sesh, The Eve’s Drop, and Paano Kung…, and more to come.
“We’re constantly seeking new ways to improve the experience for creators, enabling them to connect with their fans. As a format, audio podcasting provides a deeper intimacy than any other format out there. Now, with the introduction of Video, creators are able to add another layer that will ultimately add to the overall listener experience on Spotify. Innovations like this will inspire new genres and creators, pushing the podcasting industry in the Philippines forward and we’re excited to be at the forefront of that,” says Carl Zuzarte, head of studios for Spotify in Southeast Asia.
www.spotify.com/us