New features coming to YouTube could make it better for listening to podcasts, rolling out to Premium subscribers starting today on Android and coming later to iOS.
A new “on-the-go mode” shifts YouTube into an audio-first layout, with larger, simplified playback buttons, a still image in place of the video, and a timeline showing video chapters. The mode can be enabled in a video’s settings, and a pop-up will also appear if YouTube detects you’re moving around while watching.
For listeners who prefer faster playback, YouTube is also introducing an auto speed feature that can automate the process of speeding through episodes.
Source: YouTube adds audio-first mode and auto speed for podcast listeners