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A young person in a gray hoodie and yellow sneakers sits on the floor, focused on a smartphone. The cozy room has warm lighting, a large TV, and photos on the wall.

How Gen Z Listens to Podcasts in 2025: Audio, Mobile & Spotify Reign

Despite the shift toward video, Gen Z podcast listeners remain audio-first, mobile-heavy, and loyal to Spotify as their platform of choice.

New survey data from Transistor.fm reveals several important trends in Gen Z podcast listening habits that challenge common assumptions.

1. Audio Still Rules the Day

Despite the rise of video formats, 76% of Gen Z listeners prefer audio-only podcasts, with only 6% watching video podcasts and 18% engaging with a mix of both.

2. Mobile-First, Home-Based Listening

A majority (59% of Gen Z listeners) primarily consume podcasts at home using mobile devices. This highlights the importance of mobile-friendly podcast formats and experiences.

3. Spotify Takes the Lead
While YouTube is a dominant platform across all demographics, Gen Z favors Spotify, with 56% of respondents calling it their go-to platform, compared to just 21% for YouTube and 10% for Apple Podcasts.

What This Means for Podcasters

  • Focus on crisp, compelling audio experiences destined for mobile listening.
  • Prioritize Spotify optimization, given its popularity with younger audiences.
  • Rethink the assumption that video is essential – audio formats still resonate more deeply with Gen Z.

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