Apple Podcasts is set to introduce automatically-generated chapters for English-language shows, alongside a feature that allows creators to insert timed links at specific moments within their episodes. These timed links could also be automatically included when creators mention another podcast during their shows.
Creators will have the option to opt out of both features. The automatically-generated chapters will only be created if creators do not provide their own, and these will be identifiable on the episode’s chapter list. This update follows a similar initiative from Spotify, which launched an auto-generated chapters feature earlier this year.
The timed links feature enables creators to share links related to their content, directing listeners to platforms such as Apple Music, Apple News, Apple Podcasts, and Apple TV, all linked to precise timestamps. These links will appear as banners on the Now Playing screen and will also be included in the episode transcript and details page.
As Apple rolls out these features, questions remain about how they will impact listener engagement and creator practices on the platform.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/news/813817/apple-podcasts-automatic-links-and-chapters