How to Upload Podcast to Apple Podcasts & iTunes (2023)
The Apple Podcasts directory is the most popular iOS podcast app. It accounts for 43.1.% of podcast downloads and is the first place you should get listed.
If your submission meets Apple Podcasts' requirements, it will also be available in other directories like Overcast and Castbox.
Follow this step-by-step guide to submit your show to Apple Podcasts!
Step #1. Fill out podcast info
A unique podcast show 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. If your target listeners might search “Best Podcast about AI” make sure you include AI in these fields. But do not stuff keywords into these sections, or your podcast might be rejected.
Your podcast hosting provider will have a page where you can save your podcast info.
On Buzzsprout, this is listed on the Podcast Info page.
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.
PRO TIP
Issues with podcast cover art is the most common reason podcasts aren’t accepted into Apple Podcasts. If you run into issues, double-check that your podcast artwork follows these exact specifications.
If you use Buzzsprout’s Canva integration, your artwork will follow these specifications automatically.
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 since these are less competitive. Your podcast will rank higher and gain new followers.
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, bonus, 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.
Then click Launch Apple Podcasts Connect website.
Step #6. Create Apple ID if You Don't Have One
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. Add Podcast 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.
Paste your RSS Feed URL from step 5 and click Add.
Apple Podcasts Connect process and validate your show details. This should only take ~30 minutes, but can sometimes take a few hours.
If it takes more than 24 hours, reach out to Apple Podcast Support.
APPLE PODCASTS IS FREE
If you add a show without an RSS Feed you will start creating an Apple Podcasts Subscription. You’ll need to pay $19.99 to join the Apple Podcasters Program. This is only for podcasters that want to sell premium content through an Apple Podcasts Subscription.
Step #8. Complete the Content Rights & Show Contact
While Apple Podcasts Connect processes your podcast, you should complete the content rights and show contact sections.
If your podcast is all original content, then click that it doesn’t contain 3rd party material.
If you use copyrighted material, like music or clips, click that your show has obtained the rights to that material.
Next, complete your show contact form. This isn’t made public and allows Apple Podcasts to reach out if there’s an issue with your podcast.
Click Save.
Step #9. Publish Your Podcast
Once Apple has pulled in your show information and verified there aren’t any technical or content issues with your RSS feed.
You can click Publish to complete your podcast submission.
You'll receive an email letting you know that your podcast is available on Apple Podcasts.
Once approved, your podcast 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 Podcasts Connect process and validate your show details. This should only take ~30 minutes, but can sometimes take a few hours.
If it takes more than 24 hours, reach out to Apple Podcast Support.
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.
If you’re still having issues, please reach out to support@buzzsprout.com, we’d love to help!
Is it free to submit a podcast to Apple Podcasts?
Yes. It is completely free to get listed in Apple Podcasts.
However, if you want to create an Apple Podcasts Subscription you’ll need to pay $19.99 to join the Apple Podcasters Program. This is only for podcasters that want to sell premium content through an Apple Podcasts Subscription.
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, iHeartRadio the Podcast Index, and Amazon Music.