Among the changes in iOS 17.4 is support for automatically generated transcripts in the Apple Podcasts app, making it easy for listeners to catch up on their favorite shows. Transcripts will only appear for podcasts in English, French, German and Spanish. It will be available in more than 170 countries and regions.
Similar to how lyrics work on Apple Music, users can view a live text version of an episode and the words are highlighted as they listen. Users can also tap anywhere on the transcript to play the episode at that specific point. To withdraw the transfer, users click on the new “offer” icon at the bottom of the “Now Playing” screen. Additionally, there is a way to view the transcript without listening by holding down on the episode details page and selecting “View Transcript.”
Image Credits: apple
Whenever a new episode is published, a transcript is automatically created by Apple’s software. Understandably, the company says there will be a “slight delay” while the transcript is processed, so it may not appear immediately after the episode is uploaded. Back catalog episodes will receive transcripts “over time,” the company wrote.
Creators can also publish their own transcripts by changing the setting in Apple Podcasts Connect under the Availability tab. However, it is important to note that uploaded transcripts will not be displayed if they do not meet Apple’s standards. For example, there should be no spelling or punctuation errors.
The company states that episodes with cross-talk – multiple people speaking at the same time – may “limit transcription quality”. Transcripts are also not displayed for “inappropriate episodes” when content restrictions are enabled. Additionally, Apple will not transcribe music lyrics.
Apple released iOS 17.4 in beta today, with most of the changes affecting EU developers, including a new fee structure, new frameworks and APIs for alternative browser engines, and new options for distributing iOS apps from alternative app stores. iOS 17.4 is expected to be released to the public in March.
Earlier this week, Apple made iOS 17.3 widely available, giving users access to Stolen Device Protection and collaborative playlists for Apple Music.
