Blubrry now works with Apple Podcasts to integrate HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) video into shows published through Blubrry Publisher.
Blubrry hosting customers using Publisher can upload one MP4 video episode and make it available in video and audio through a single RSS feed.
Blubrry automatically prepares:
- An HLS video version for Apple Podcasts
- Your original video file
- An MP3 audio version for audio-focused podcast apps
You manage one episode and one feed. Podcast apps use the format they support.
One Podcast Should Not Require Two Publishing Workflows
Publishing a podcast in both video and audio has often meant creating separate files, uploading them to different platforms or maintaining more than one RSS feed.
This new workflow is designed to simplify that process.
When you upload a video episode through Blubrry Publisher, Blubrry automatically creates the HLS video and MP3 audio versions. The HLS video, original video file and MP3 enclosure are included within the same feed.
That means you do not need to upload a separate MP3, create a second feed or manage multiple versions of the same episode.
Watch, Listen or Switch With a Tap
With video on Apple Podcasts, audiences can watch or listen to the same episode and switch between audio and video with a tap.
Someone might watch part of an interview at home, switch to audio when they leave and continue from the same point. They do not need to search for another version of the show or move to a separate feed.
What Is HTTP Live Streaming Video?
HTTP Live Streaming video, commonly called HLS video, is the technology Apple Podcasts uses to provide adaptive video playback.
Rather than delivering one large video file at a fixed quality, HLS video divides the episode into smaller segments and prepares it at multiple quality levels.
As someone watches, Apple Podcasts can adjust the video quality to match their Wi-Fi or cellular connection. This can help video begin playing faster and reduce buffering interruptions when connection conditions change.
A weak or interrupted connection can still cause delays, but adaptive playback gives the app more flexibility than a single fixed-quality video file.
What Blubrry Creates From Your Upload
After you upload an MP4 episode through Blubrry Publisher, Blubrry automatically creates three available formats.
HLS video for Apple Podcasts
Blubrry prepares the episode as a 1080p Full HD HLS video version formatted for Apple Podcasts.
Your original video file
The original uploaded video remains available for podcast apps that support standard video enclosures.
An MP3 audio version
Blubrry generates an MP3 version for apps that do not support HLS video.
All three formats are included within the same RSS feed. Apple Podcasts uses HLS video, while other apps select the video or audio format they support.
Who Can Use This Feature?
This new video publishing workflow is currently available to Blubrry hosting customers using Blubrry Publisher.
It is not available through PowerPress at this time.
PowerPress customers can continue publishing through their existing WordPress workflow. No changes are required.
How to Get Started
Before publishing your first HLS video episode, connect Apple Podcasts Connect to your Blubrry account.
1. Create an Apple Podcasts Connect API key
Sign in to Apple Podcasts Connect, go to Account > API Keys and create a new key. Download the key file.
2. Upload the key to Blubrry
In the Blubrry dashboard, go to:
Show > Manage > More > Subscriptions
Upload and verify the file.
3. Publish through Blubrry Publisher
Upload an MP4 video and create your episode as usual. Blubrry will automatically generate the HLS video and MP3 audio versions.
Some processing time is required before the episode becomes available to watch on Apple Podcasts.
For complete instructions, visit Blubrry HLS documentation.
More Ways to Experience Your Podcast Without More Work
Video does not need to replace audio, and every podcast does not need to become a video show.
This release gives Blubrry Publisher customers more flexibility. Creators can use video when it supports the episode while continuing to serve audience members who prefer to listen.
With one video upload, audiences can now watch, listen or switch between audio and video with a tap.
Learn more at at HLS at Blubrry or follow the setup instructions in Blubrry’s documentation.