The rollout has started on Android, while iOS support is expected in the coming months.
DUBAI, UAE- YouTube is expanding its Premium experience with a new set of podcast-focused features designed to make listening easier, smarter, and more personalized. The platform has officially introduced Auto Speed, On-the-go Mode, and enhanced AI-powered podcast recommendations, as it continues to strengthen its position in the rapidly growing podcast market. According to YouTube, Premium users watched more than 800 million hours of podcast content in April 2026 alone, highlighting the rising popularity of podcasts on the platform. YouTube Podcasts now reaches more than one billion monthly active users globally.
One of the most talked-about additions is the new Auto Speed feature. Unlike traditional playback speed controls that require users to manually select a speed, Auto Speed intelligently adjusts playback throughout a podcast or video. The feature can automatically speed up during slower conversations or lengthy introductions and return to normal speed during information-heavy sections. The goal is to help listeners consume content more efficiently without missing important details. The feature is currently available for Premium users on Android and is expected to arrive on iOS devices in the coming months.
Another major addition is On-the-go Mode, a feature specifically designed for users who listen while commuting, exercising, walking, or multitasking. The mode transforms YouTube into a more audio-focused experience by simplifying controls, enlarging playback buttons, and reducing visual distractions. Users can quickly skip forward, rewind, jump between chapters, and switch between video and audio-focused playback more easily. YouTube says the feature is designed to improve background listening and make podcasts more convenient for users who are constantly on the move.
The company has also expanded its Ask Music AI feature to include podcast recommendations. Users can now ask for podcast suggestions based on their interests, moods, favorite creators, or preferred topics. The AI tool is intended to make podcast discovery easier, helping listeners find relevant content without spending time searching through thousands of available shows.
These new features demonstrate YouTube’s growing focus on competing with dedicated podcast platforms such as Spotify and Apple Podcasts. By combining artificial intelligence, smarter playback controls, and improved content discovery, YouTube is aiming to make its Premium subscription more valuable while attracting more podcast listeners worldwide. The rollout begins with Android users and is expected to expand further across platforms in the months ahead.
