Apple Podcasts have had the option for users to read auto-generated transcripts since earlier this year. Allowing users to follow along. However, until now, the language choices have been limited.
Earlier on in the year, Apple added an option for users to read along while they listen. Apple Podcasts have an auto-generated transcript feature, which allows users to see what’s being said within the episode. This feature is brilliant for those who are deaf or hard of hearing.
However, there was a drawback. Apple only added four languages. Until now. The platform have updated the feature and added in eight new languages, so listeners can follow along in their native language, making for a better experience.
These real-time transcripts are now available in the following languages; English, Danish, Dutch, Finnish, French, German, Italian, Norwegian, Portuguese (Brazil and Portugal), Spanish and Swedish. Hopefully, Apple will continue to add more languages.
Apple Podcast creators were contacted
Podcast creators were informed via email that this change was happening. Normally, transcripts are automatically available a short time after the podcast has been published. This is likely so that AI can do the work of preparing each transcript.
If portions of your episode change with dynamically inserted audio, Apple Podcasts will not display the segments of the audio that have changed since the original transcription. Music lyrics are also not displayed in the transcripts.
Apple Podcasts
With the release of transcripts, Apple said, “If portions of your episode change with dynamically inserted audio, Apple Podcasts will not display the segments of the audio that have changed since the original transcription. Music lyrics are also not displayed in the transcripts.”
To view transcripts, users can click on the Quote button, which is located on the Now Playing screen. This can be found within the Podcasts app. These podcasts are available on all Apple devices; iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, Apple Watch and the HomePod.
The feature is not only great for users, but also creators. Podcast hosts can speak freely in their native language, knowing the transcripts will be a welcomed addition. We hope over time Apple consider adding even more languages.
