Especially when I’m tied to my Mac during daily chores, I like to catch up with some of my favorite motivational podcasts. They (kind of) keep me refreshed and enlightened. So, I’m glad that Apple has introduced a standalone Podcasts app for macOS – post the shut-down of iTunes. Both in terms of user interface and features, the app looks quite similar to its iOS counterpart. Therefore, it feels a lot familiar right from the word go – of course with a few hidden tricks up its sleeve. If you are a loyal podcast listener, you shouldn’t miss out on these best tips and tricks to use the Podcasts app like a pro in macOS Catalina.
Keeping in mind the age-old rule, “What works for one might not work for everyone,” Apple offers plenty of options to customize Podcasts app on macOS Catalina. So, based on your needs or for that matter listening taste, you can customize several pivotal aspects including forward/back skip buttons, automatic downloads, playback, and more. Having said that, let’s finally tune in to the guide!
I get it. The Podcasts app wants to keep the clutter away by automatically wiping out the already played episodes. Besides, it also saves precious time that you have to spend cleaning the clogged up storage. But what if you are someone who likes to listen to some cool podcasts multiple times, would you still be happy with this storage management feature? Most probably, you wont like it. So, let us disable that for you.
- Now, click on the Podcasts menu at the top left corner and choose Preferences.
Just like the iOS counterpart, the Podcasts app for macOS also lets you adjust the forward/back skip seconds. So, if you ever wish to change the skip seconds in line with your convenience, you can do so with ease. Do keep in mind that if an episode has chapters, the next and previous will navigate between chapters and then episodes.
Note: You can also use Siri to adjust the skip buttons. Simply say something like, “Hey Siri, forward/backward 30 seconds.”
Podcasts app automatically download the new or all unplayed episodes so that you can hook onto them right away. While I really like this feature as it’s super handy, there are times where I disable the automatic downloads – especially when my limited internet pack is running out of gas! Luckily, Apple offers a straightforward way to turn it off/on.
By default, the Podcasts app automatically refreshes every hour to stay updated. While it’s a useful feature, it drains the battery and of course, also eats into plenty of data. So, when you are struggling to take control of the draining battery of your MacBook or wish to help the limited internet pack last a bit longer, force it to either refresh less frequently or do it manually.
5. Stop Podcasts from Syncing Subscriptions Across iDevices
One of the best perks that you get while being tied to the Apple ecosystem is the seamless syncing. Just like other compatible apps, Podcasts also syncs all of your subscriptions across the iDevices connected with the same Apple ID. Therefore, you can comfortably access your subscriptions from any of your devices and manage them without any hassle. But what if you have subscribed to some podcast channels that you want to keep under the wraps on one of your devices? In this situation, you may want to turn off syncing.
6. Customize Headphone Controls
A little buried in the settings is an option to configure headphone controls. By default, headphone controls let you switch between the next and the previous episode. However, you can choose to set it for skip forward/skip back.
7. Stop When an Episode Ends
As soon as an episode ends, the Podcasts app starts a new one so that your listening spree doesn’t come to a halt. While no one may argue about its significance, some might want to kickstart a show at their own will. If you are one of them, this little trick could be your thing.
8. Play Podcasts Next in the Queue
Another simple yet cool trick that can enhance your podcast listening experience on your Mac! Though it’s quite easy to play podcasts next in the queue, the option requires a bit of digging. That’s why I thought it’s worth mentioning. Save it for the times where you want to have a bit more control over your podcasts.
- Next, click the options button and choose Play Next.
Well, this one is my favorite hack by a long distance. I use this nifty trick to change the order episodes get played on the Mac. For a personalized podcast listening experience, it’s right on the money.
- Now, hover the mouse over the podcast and then click on the Options button (…).
10. Delete a Podcast from Your Library
This tip can come in handy when you have disabled the automatic deletion and wish to get rid of the already played items on your own term. Fortunately, it’s quite upfront to do and hardly requires a couple of steps.
Sharing something exciting like Apple TV+ or popular podcasts with your friends and loved ones feels nice. Therefore, whenever you come across a touching podcast, don’t fail to share it with your buddies. The option for sharing content in the Podcasts app is easy but slightly out of sight.
Hopefully, these tips can help you unlock the best out of the Apple Podcasts app on your macOS device. As no list can be perfect, I would love to have your suggestions. Also, if there is any cool hack worth mentioning in this post, do not forget to share it with us.
