New Overcast App Update Brings Podcast Transcripts to iPhone Users

If you love listening to shows on your iPhone, you will be happy to know that a major Apple iOS application just got a big upgrade. The popular third-party client Overcast released version 2026.04 today, officially bringing text transcripts to all of its users. Developer Marco Arment previously tested this tool in a beta version last month, but now everyone can download it from the store.



Here’s how the new transcript feature works



Finding the written text is simple. When you view the podcast artwork on your screen, you just swipe to the left. If the episode supports chapters, the text will appear right next to the chapter screen. The words will automatically live-scroll as you listen, so the text always matches the audio playing in your ears. You can even tap on any specific sentence to jump directly to that exact part of the episode.



Even if a show does not provide its own written copy, its system has a backup plan. If you have a compatible device running iOS 26, the application can actually create the transcript automatically using built-in artificial intelligence. This means you will rarely be left without a way to read along.



While the current update is already very helpful, the developer has several more enhancements on his roadmap. Upcoming versions will include a search function so you can find specific keywords inside a transcript.



The app will also add automated chapter markers and show summaries based on the text. Listeners will even gain the ability to share short audio clips with captions attached.