YouTube Premium adds AI podcast tools and Auto Speed feature

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YouTube Premium is introducing new AI-powered podcast features, including Auto Speed, On-the-go Mode and expanded Ask Music recommendations.

WASHINGTON: YouTube Premium is rolling out three new AI-powered features designed to enhance the podcast listening experience, as the platform continues to invest in personalised and mobile-friendly content consumption.

The updates arrive as podcast viewing on the platform continues to grow. According to YouTube, Premium subscribers watched more than 800 million hours of podcast content in April 2026 alone, highlighting the increasing popularity of the format among users worldwide.

One of the most notable additions is the YouTube Auto Speed feature, which automatically adjusts playback speed in real time. The tool increases speed during slower conversations or pauses and slows down during information-heavy segments, helping listeners consume content more efficiently without missing important details.

Another new feature is On-the-go Mode, aimed at users who listen to podcasts while commuting, travelling or exercising. The simplified interface removes visual distractions such as comments and unnecessary screen elements while providing larger playback controls for easier navigation. The streamlined design is intended to improve usability for listeners who are multitasking.

The third update expands the platform’s Ask Music AI tool into the main YouTube application. The feature can now provide personalised podcast recommendations based on user preferences, favourite shows, listening habits and current moods. The enhancement is designed to help users discover relevant content more quickly through conversational AI interactions.

The YouTube Auto Speed feature and other new tools are available exclusively to Premium subscribers. The rollout begins on Android devices, with iOS support expected to follow in the coming months.

The latest enhancements reflect YouTube’s growing focus on artificial intelligence and personalised content discovery as competition intensifies across the podcast and audio streaming market.

With podcast engagement reaching new highs, the company is positioning YouTube Premium as a more comprehensive destination for listeners seeking convenience, customisation and smarter content recommendations.

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