Netflix forges deal with Spotify to stream video podcasts
Netflix is taking the streaming game to the next level with a groundbreaking new deal with Spotify, which allows video podcasts to appear on the streaming giant.
The companies recently announced their newfound partnership, which will bring select few podcasts from Spotify Studios and The Ringer to Netflix. The video podcasts can be streamed on Netflix US from early 2026, with other markets to follow suit.
The selection of initial titles includes The Bill Simmons Podcast, The Zach Lowe Show, The McShay Show, The Rewatchables, Conspiracy Theories, among others. In time, more titles will be added to the platform as the alliance grows.
The game-changing move from Netflix and Spotify comes amid the uptick in video podcasts. Currently, YouTube stands tall as the most popular platform for podcasts. Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos previously fanned the flames of potentially bringing video podcasts to the streamer in April this year, citing their momentum, while saying that the streaming giant is “constantly looking at all different types of content and content creators to feature on the platform.
Since YouTube is a formidable competitor for Netflix, this move seems rather calculated. Most recently, Spotify forged a deal with ChatGPT, offering listeners personalised music and podcast recommendations when they start an interaction with ChatGPT.
“At Netflix, we’re always looking for new ways to entertain our members, wherever and however they want to watch,” said Netflix vp of content licensing and programming strategy, Lauren Smith. “With video podcasts on the rise, our partnership with Spotify ensures we bring the full video versions of these top shows to Netflix and Spotify. From sports, this curated selection of video podcasts adds fresh voices and new perspectives to Netflix, making our entertainment lineup more exciting than ever,” she continued.
VP, head of podcasts at Spotify, Roman Wasenmuller, chimed in, saying, “This partnership marks a new chapter for podcasting. Together with Netflix, we’re expanding discovery, helping creators reach new audiences and giving fans around the world the chance to experience the stories they love and uncover favourites they never expected.”
The video podcasts that will be available during the initial launch include The Bill Simmons Podcast, The Zach Lowe Show, The McSHay Show, Fairway Rollin’, The Mismatch, The Ringer F1 Show, The Ringer Fantasy Football Show, The Ringer NFL Show, and The Ringer NBA Show, in the sports sector. From the culture/lifestyle sector, the partnership will bring The Rewatchables, The Big Picture, The Dave Chang Show, The Recipe Club, and Dissect. Lastly, from the world of true crime, the collaboration will feature Conspiracy Theories and Serial Killers.