Apple has announced an update for its iOS and iPadOS platforms, introducing auto-generated transcripts for podcasts within the Apple Podcasts app. With the release of version 17.4, iPhone and iPad users will now have access to transcripts for podcast episodes.
The update says that transcripts will be automatically generated for new podcast episodes shortly after their release. Episodes that were published before the update will be gradually transcribed over time.
"With transcripts, users can read the full text of an episode, search the episode for a specific word or phrase, and tap on the text to play the podcast from that point in the episode. As an episode plays, each word is highlighted, making it easy to follow along," Apple wrote.
One of the notable features of these transcripts is their searchability, allowing listeners to quickly find specific words or phrases within an episode. Transcripts can be accessed from the bottom-left corner of the "Now Playing" screen, offering users easy navigation through podcast content.
"Introducing transcripts on Apple Podcasts builds on Apple’s commitment to making products and services for everyone," said Sarah Herrlinger, Apple's senior director, Global Accessibility Policy & Initiatives in the press release. "We are thrilled to make transcripts widely available for all, adding an additional layer of accessibility to the Podcasts experience."
This move by Apple follows in the footsteps of Spotify, which introduced auto-generated transcripts for its platform last year, which aligns with the growing demand for accessibility features, particularly for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.
To address the concerns of potential mistakes that the auto-generation might make, Apple allows podcasters to upload their own transcripts via RSS tags or through Apple Podcasts Connect. Podcasters can also choose to edit Apple's transcripts before reuploading them.
Transcripts will be available in over 170 countries in English, French, German, and Spanish languages. But they won't be translated from one language to another.
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