Spotify Video Ads and Podcast Ads Explained
Spotify sells more than audio between songs. Video ads play when people are looking at the app, and podcast ads reach listeners inside shows, either as produced spots or read by the host. Each suits a different goal.
What are Spotify video and podcast ads?
Video ads play when the Spotify app is open and in view, so they suit products that need to be seen. Podcast ads run before, during or after episodes, either as produced spots inserted into shows or as host-read ads, where the host speaks about your product. Audio-only ads are covered in writing Spotify audio ads.
| Format | Best for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Video | Showing the product, visual brands | Only plays when the app is in view |
| Podcast spot (produced) | Scale across many shows | Less personal than a host read |
| Host-read podcast ad | Trust and detail for considered purchases | Higher cost, less control over wording |
| Music audio | Reach and frequency | No visuals |
When should you use video ads?
When the product needs to be seen: a short screen recording, a before-and-after, or a face explaining the offer. Keep it short, design for sound off and on, and repeat the brand early. Video creative principles are covered in more depth in the YouTube video ad creative guide.
When do podcast ads work best?
For considered purchases where trust matters, including B2B. A host whose audience matches your buyers lends credibility, and listeners often act later rather than immediately. Use a vanity URL or code so you can measure response; see Spotify Ads measurement.
| Item | Brief |
|---|---|
| Who it is for | Operations leaders at mid-size 3PLs |
| One message | Peak-season routing planned in an afternoon |
| Proof | Customers cut planning from a week to a day |
| Action | northwind.example/podcast for a free plan |
| Freedom | Tell it in your own words; avoid our jargon |
How do formats work together?
Use podcast ads for trust with a specific audience, music audio for reach and frequency in the same regions, and video for a visual moment. Retarget website visitors across formats. Budget each separately so results are readable; see Spotify Ads cost.
Borrow trust where you can.
A host your buyers already trust can do in one minute what a dozen generic ads can’t.
How should you start?
- Pick the format that matches the goal: trust, reach or visuals.
- For podcasts, list five shows your buyers listen to.
- Write a host brief, not a script, for host reads.
- Use a unique URL or code per show or format.
- Compare results after one full flight.
The B2B approach is in Spotify Ads for B2B.
Frequently asked questions
Does Spotify have video ads?
Yes. Video ads play when the Spotify app is open and in view.
What are Spotify podcast ads?
Ads that run within podcast episodes, as produced spots or read by the host.
Are host-read ads better?
For trust and considered purchases, often yes. They cost more and offer less control over wording.
How do I measure podcast ads?
With unique URLs or promo codes per show, the pixel where available, and self-reported attribution.
Can B2B companies use podcast ads?
Yes, on business and industry podcasts whose audience matches their buyers.
Should I use video or audio on Spotify?
Video when the product needs to be seen; audio for reach and frequency.