earsay vs Apple Podcasts: Which Is Better?

Apple Podcasts is the default podcast app on iPhone, but it cannot skip ads automatically. earsay is a free alternative that uses on-device AI to detect and skip podcast ads in real-time. If you're tired of hearing the same ads repeatedly, earsay offers a better listening experience.

Feature Comparison

Feature Apple Podcasts earsay
Automatic Ad Skipping
Voice Boost
Silence Skip
Sponsors Tab (Visual Ads)
Variable Playback Speed
Offline Downloads
Chapters Support
Transcripts
Sleep Timer
CarPlay Support
iCloud Sync
Pre-installed on iPhone
100% On-Device Privacy

Key Differences

Automatic Ad Skipping

Apple Podcasts has no way to skip ads automatically. You have to manually tap forward 15 or 30 seconds repeatedly. earsay detects ads using on-device AI and skips them instantly.

Voice Boost & Silence Skip

Apple Podcasts lacks voice enhancement and silence removal features. earsay includes Voice Boost to make speech clearer and Silence Skip to remove dead air, saving you time.

Sponsors Tab

With ad skipping enabled, earsay shows detected sponsor information in a visual Sponsors Tab. You can browse sponsors without listening to ads. Apple Podcasts has no equivalent feature.

Privacy

Apple Podcasts syncs your listening history to iCloud and may use data for recommendations. earsay processes everything on-device with no account required and no data collection.

Switch to earsay

The only podcast app that skips ads automatically. Free for iPhone.

Download on the App Store

Free download. No subscription required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I transfer my Apple Podcasts subscriptions to earsay?

Yes! Search for your podcasts in earsay and subscribe, or use OPML export if available. All podcasts in Apple Podcasts are also available in earsay.

Will I lose my listening progress?

You'll start fresh in earsay, but this is a one-time switch. earsay tracks your progress locally on your device.

Does earsay work with Apple CarPlay?

Yes, earsay fully supports CarPlay for safe listening while driving.

Is earsay as reliable as Apple Podcasts?

earsay is built by experienced iOS developers and uses standard podcast feeds. It's just as reliable as Apple Podcasts for finding and playing episodes.

Why doesn't Apple add ad skipping to Apple Podcasts?

Apple has relationships with podcast networks and advertisers. A third-party app like earsay can focus purely on listener experience without those constraints.