Netflix and Spotify strike video podcast deal

Netflix has inked a deal with music streamer Spotify to make video podcasts available on its platform.

The wide-ranging pact will see video for the likes of The Bill Simmons Podcast, The Ringer’s NFL, NBA, Fantasy Football and F1 and true crime pod Conspiracy Theories, among others, be available to view on Netflix and Spotify.

The visualised podcasts will be available in the US from early next year, with other markets to follow.

Lauren Smith, Netflix vice-president of content licensing and programming strategy, said: “At Netflix, we’re always looking for new ways to entertain our members, wherever and however they want to watch.

“As video podcasts continue to grow in popularity, our partnership with Spotify allows us to bring full video versions of these top shows to both Netflix and Spotify audiences.

“From pop culture and lifestyle to true crime and sports, this curated selection of video podcasts adds fresh voices and new perspectives to Netflix, making our entertainment lineup more exciting than ever.”

Roman Wasenmüller, vice-president, head of podcasts at Spotify, said the deal “marks a new chapter” for the medium.

He continued: “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 favorites they never expected.

“This offers more choice to creators and unlocks a completely new distribution opportunity.”

The deal is the latest in a string of partnerships over the past year that have seen streamers and broadcasters looking to expand reach by working more closely together.

Earlier this year, Netflix co-chief exec Ted Sarandos unveiled a pact with TF1 in France that will see programming becoming available on the streamer from next year.