According to MacRumors, Apple’s iOS 26.2 update introduces three significant features to the Podcasts app that will change how users interact with content. All English podcast shows will now automatically get chapters created for easier navigation and episode structure understanding. The system will use creator-submitted chapters when available, but defaults to Apple’s automatic generation otherwise. Podcast creators can disable this feature through Apple Podcasts Connect if they prefer. Additionally, creators can now embed timestamped links to Apple services like Apple Music and Apple TV that appear inline during playback. iOS 26.2 is currently developer-only but should hit public beta this week, with full release scheduled for December.
Why this matters
Here’s the thing about podcast chapters – they’re one of those features you don’t realize you need until you have them. Remember trying to find that one specific segment in a two-hour interview? It’s basically digital needle-threading. Apple‘s move to make chapters automatic for all English podcasts is huge because it eliminates the friction that keeps people from diving into longer content.
But the really clever part is how Apple handles existing creator content. They’ll use submitted chapters first, which respects the creator’s vision, but then automatically generate them when they’re missing. That’s smart – it doesn’t force creators to do extra work immediately, but ensures listeners get the better experience regardless. And creators can always turn it off if they really want to, though I can’t imagine why anyone would.
The links game
Now let’s talk about those interactive links. This is where Apple’s ecosystem advantage really shines. When a podcaster mentions a song, Apple can automatically create a link to Apple Music. Discuss a news story? Link to Apple News. It’s like turning podcasts into interactive experiences without the creator lifting a finger.
The timestamped aspect is particularly brilliant. Imagine listening to a tech podcast where they’re discussing the latest iPhone, and right when they mention it, a link pops up to buy it on Apple’s store. That’s not just convenient – it’s potentially a revenue stream. Apple’s basically creating an entire engagement layer on top of existing content.
<h2 id="strategy-behind-the-update“>Strategy behind the update
So why is Apple doing this now? Look, podcasting has become incredibly competitive. Spotify’s been pushing hard with video podcasts and exclusive deals. Apple needs to maintain its position as the premium podcast platform, and these features are part of that defense.
The timing is interesting too – December release gives creators holiday season to play with the new tools before 2025. And making chapters automatic? That’s a classic Apple move. They’re not waiting for creators to adopt best practices – they’re building the best practices directly into the platform. It’s the kind of thing that makes their ecosystem stickier while genuinely improving the user experience. Pretty clever, really.
For creators who want to dive deeper, Apple has detailed documentation available about enhancing episodes with these new features.
