# Apple Podcasts: New Features in iOS 18.4 Address Long-Standing Issues
Apple Podcasts has been a staple in the podcasting world since its inception, but it has faced increasing competition from platforms like YouTube and various third-party apps. Despite this, Apple continues to refine its offering, and the latest update, iOS 18.4, introduces some much-needed enhancements, particularly in the form of new widgets that address previous user frustrations.
## The Up Next Queue: A Source of Frustration
For many longtime users of Apple Podcasts, the introduction of the Up Next queue was met with mixed feelings. Initially designed to streamline the listening experience by providing a centralized location for upcoming episodes, it inadvertently complicated the interface. The previous version allowed users to easily view a list of the most recent episodes published, which many found more intuitive.
While Up Next aims to be a one-stop destination for what to listen to next, it requires additional taps to access the ‘Latest Episodes’ view, which detracts from the user experience. This shift has led to dissatisfaction among users who preferred the simplicity of the earlier layout.
## New Widgets: A Welcome Addition
In response to user feedback, iOS 18.4 introduces two new widget types for Apple Podcasts, significantly improving accessibility and usability:
1. **Library Widget**: This widget displays episodes from your library, allowing you to quickly access your favorite content.
2. **Shows Widget**: This widget focuses on a single show of your choice, presenting episodes in a streamlined format.
Both widgets come in various sizes, including XL versions for iPad users, making them versatile for different screen sizes and user preferences.
### The Library Widget: A Game Changer
Among the new features, the Library widget has quickly become a favorite for many users. It can be configured to display Saved Episodes, Downloaded Episodes, or the Latest Episodes. This customization is particularly beneficial for those who want to stay updated with the most recent content without navigating through the app.
By placing the Latest Episodes option on the Home Screen, users can now view and play the four most recently published episodes from their followed shows without needing to open the app. This feature effectively restores the convenience of the app’s previous default setup, allowing for a more seamless listening experience.
## Conclusion
While the Up Next feature may still leave some users wanting, the introduction of the new widgets in iOS 18.4 provides a significant improvement in how Apple Podcasts can be used. Users can now bypass the frustrations of the Up Next queue and enjoy a more straightforward way to access their favorite podcasts.
Have you tried the new widgets in Apple Podcasts with iOS 18.4? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
