YouTube is rolling out new podcast features for Premium subscribers, led by an AI-powered recommendation tool that suggests shows based on genre, mood, and listening history — extending the personalised discovery already offered by its Ask Music feature.
A new Auto Speed setting uses AI to intelligently adjust playback rates during slower or information-dense segments, addressing the inconsistency that arises when hosts shift pace or tone throughout a conversation. A dedicated on-the-go listening mode adds streamlined controls optimised for commuting, exercise, and multitasking.
The updates arrive as YouTube competes aggressively for podcast audiences against Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Netflix, which is investing heavily in video podcasts. YouTube Podcasts already counts over one billion monthly active users, with Premium subscribers alone logging more than 800 million hours of podcast viewing in April 2026. Auto Speed and on-the-go mode are live on Android, with iOS support coming soon.
