ABC listen launches video podcasts across app

ABC listen has launched video podcasts in its app, giving audiences the ability to watch content alongside the platform's existing radio, podcasts, music, news, sport and audiobooks.

Nielsen's 2026 Podcast Listen & Watch Report found 90% of monthly podcast consumers listen to podcasts, while 62% also watch them.

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New features

New app features include adjustable playback speed, portrait and full-screen viewing, episode download, and resume playback.

ABC director of audio Ben Latimer said the update supported the broadcaster's goal of a single content destination.

"Our video podcasts have been performing well off platform, and the addition of video capability in ABC listen supports our ambition to create a single destination for the ABC's full content catalogue," Latimer said.

Industry reaction

ABC head of audio on demand Jessica Radburn said the update was free and did not require audiences to leave the app.

“Podcast audiences are increasingly moving between listening and watching and ABC listen is evolving with them. Audiences don't need to leave ABC listen to watch the shows they already listen to,” Radburn said.

Titles launching with video

Titles launching with video in August include The Dead Can't Sue and The Case Of, which covers three trials including the Alan Jones case. 

Video will also be available for If You're Listening, Another Cuppa with Granny Bingo, Assassins, Like A Version and That's Business with Alan Kohler.

Technology behind the update

ABC chief digital & information officer Damian Cronan, who leads the team that built ABC listen in-house, said the update reflected changing audience behaviour.

“We're moving into a world where audio, video and text aren't separate experiences anymore. Our technology stack needs to be flexible to meet this change in audience behaviour,” Cronan said.

The update requires iOS Listen App version 9.34 or Android Listen App version 2026.07.14776.