Get Your Podcast into Apple Podcasts & iTunes [2022]
The Apple Podcasts directory is the most popular iOS podcast app. It accounts for 37.4% of podcast downloads and is the first place you should get listed.
As long as your submission meets Apple Podcasts' requirements, it will also be available in other directories like Overcast.
Follow this step-by-step guide to submit your show to Apple Podcasts!
JUMP TO A SECTION:
Step #1. Fill out podcast info
A unique podcast title, author, and description are required to submit your show to Apple Podcasts.
Apple uses the title and author fields for search in Apple Podcasts. Don't stuff keywords into these sections, or your podcast might be rejected.
Your podcast host will have a page where you can save your podcast info.
Step #2. Upload podcast artwork
Unique podcast cover art is required to get listed in Apple Podcasts.
Your cover art must meet Apple Podcasts' artwork requirements:
- 3000 x 3000 pixels
- Resolution of 72 dpi
- JPG or PNG file type
- RGB colorspace
Once your show artwork is ready, upload it to your podcast host.
Step #3. Pick podcast category
Apple Podcasts splits its directory and charts into different categories like History, Fitness, and Earth Sciences.
While other podcast directories and apps use three categories, Apple Podcasts only uses your first podcast category.
Pro tip: If you're starting a new podcast, select a sub-category to rank higher and gain new subscribers.
Step #4. Upload first episode
Apple Podcasts requires every show to have at least one episode to get listed.
Your first episode can be a podcast trailer, teaser, or full episode.
Apple Podcasts does not host your podcast, so you'll need to upload your episode to a podcast host like Buzzsprout.
Give your episode a title and description, and click Publish Now.
Step #5. Copy RSS feed
Your podcast's RSS feed includes all the metadata about your podcast, like your show details and links to your cover art and audio files.
Your podcast hosting platform will create your RSS feed URL.
Copy the RSS feed URL so we can submit your podcast to Apple.
Step #6. Create Apple ID
You'll need an Apple ID to submit your show to Apple Podcasts Connect.
You can create a new Apple ID or use an existing Apple ID.
You'll use this Apple ID to log in to Apple Podcasts Connect and check your podcast analytics.
Even though getting listed in Apple Podcasts is free, your Apple ID must have a valid credit card on file, or you won't be able to log in.
Step #7. Submit to Apple Podcasts Connect
Log in to Apple Podcast Connect.
Click the ⊕ next to Podcasts in the top left and click New Show.
Select Add a show with an RSS feed and click Next.
Paste your RSS Feed URL from step 5 and click Add.
Complete the Content Rights and Show Contact sections and click Save.
Wait about 10 minutes for Apple to process and validate your show.
Click Submit for Review in the top right to complete your podcast submission.
Step #8. Wait for approval
Apple Podcasts does a human review of every new podcast and will send you an email once they approve your podcast.
Apple typically approves new shows within 72 hours. Contact Apple Podcast support if your podcast hasn't been approved or rejected in ten days.
Once approved, it will be in the Podcasts app and the Apple Podcasts website.
Alban Brooke
Alban Brooke is the Head of Marketing at Buzzsprout and the co-host of Buzzcast. Have any questions about this guide? Reach out on Twitter.
FAQs
Do I need to re-submit my podcast when I release a new podcast episode?
No. Once your podcast has been approved and listed in Apple Podcasts, Apple will automatically check your podcast feed for new episodes every 24 hours.
How long will it take Apple Podcasts to get my new episodes?
Apple Podcasts will check your podcast for new episodes every 24 hours. If your episode isn't in Apple Podcasts within 24 hours, reach out to Apple Podcasts support.
How long does it take to get accepted into Apple podcasts?
Apple does a human review of every podcast submitted to Apple Podcasts, so it can take up to two weeks for Apple to approve your podcast.
Why can't I sign into Apple Podcasts Connect?
If you can't log in to Apple Podcasts Connect, make sure your Apple ID has a valid credit card on file. Here's how to add a payment method to your Apple ID.
Is it free to submit a podcast to Apple Podcasts?
Yes, unless you're creating a paid Apple Podcasts Subscription, it is completely free to get your podcast listed in Apple Podcasts.
What is the difference between iTunes and Apple Podcasts?
In 2017, Apple rebranded iTunes into Apple Podcasts. Because of this, you might hear podcasters reference getting a podcast listed in iTunes, the iTunes Store, or logging into iTunes Connect.
Where else should I list my new podcast?
It's best to list your podcast in all the top podcast directories: Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, the Podcast Index, and Amazon Music.