Netflix Ventures into Producing Its Own Video Podcasts

Netflix Inc. intends to produce its own video podcasts. This move comes as Netflix seeks to enhance its original content after striking a deal with Spotify to add 16 video podcasts to its platform, in addition to negotiations with iHeartMedia and SiriusXM for licensing other shows. A Bloomberg report indicates that Netflix is developing its original video podcast offerings exclusively for its streaming service and plans to update its mobile app design to facilitate user access.

This step comes amid increasing interest from other platforms in the phenomenon of video podcasts, with YouTube leading the list of most popular destinations for listening to and watching podcasts. YouTube benefits from its massive user base of over 2 billion logged-in users, making it a powerful platform for audience growth. Spotify recently launched video podcasts on its updated app for Apple TV devices, and TikTok is collaborating with iHeartMedia to launch a series of podcasts, allowing users to watch video clips and highlights.

It is worth noting that Netflix is seeking to license shows for only one year, with deals potentially under $10 million, as it evaluates the feasibility of having podcasts on its streaming service.

What is a Video Podcast?

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A video podcast, sometimes known as a "vodcast," is a form of podcast that combines audio and visual content. Unlike traditional podcasts that rely entirely on audio, video podcasts offer a more interactive experience by incorporating video footage, graphics, interviews, demonstrations, or other visual elements. This format aims to provide more engaging and enriching content for viewers, which can enhance their understanding of the topic and attract a wider audience, including visual learners.

While the traditional definition of a podcast meant audio-only content, the growth of video content across social media and the internet, along with improvements in internet speed and technology, has made video more popular and essential. As a result, many podcasters realized that embracing video could allow them to attract more audiences and make the show more engaging. Video podcasts can be watched across platforms and online streaming services, in the same way you would watch videos on YouTube or Twitch. However, video podcasts are still typically available as audio-only for people who prefer to listen on the go, while exercising, or working.

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