Anchor (now Spotify for Podcasters) is a free podcast creation and distribution platform owned by Spotify. Creators can record, edit, and publish episodes directly from phone or browser, with automatic distribution to Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. This Anchor review covers features, monetization, the rebrand to Spotify for Podcasters, and what free podcast hosting actually delivers in 2026.
Originally launched in 2015, Anchor grew into one of the most popular podcast hosts by stripping away every barrier to entry, and after Spotify acquired it the platform was folded into Spotify for Podcasters (now Spotify for Creators). It stays 100% free with unlimited hosting and storage, automatic distribution to every major directory, built-in recording and editing, native video-podcast support, and monetization through ads and listener subscriptions. In this Anchor review we break down how it works in 2026, what the rebrand changed, its pros and cons, and who free podcast hosting is genuinely right for.
Anchor offers genuinely free podcast hosting with no episode caps, storage limits, or hidden tiers. You can upload as many episodes as you like and keep them online indefinitely at no cost.
Record solo episodes or remote interviews and edit them directly in the Anchor app on iPhone and Android or in your browser, trimming, rearranging, and adding transitions without separate software.
Publish once and Anchor automatically distributes your show to Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, and other major directories, handling the RSS feed for you.
Anchor supports video podcasts that play natively on Spotify, letting creators reach audiences who prefer watching as well as listening.
Through the Spotify Partner Program, creators can earn from ads and listener subscriptions once they meet eligibility thresholds, turning a hobby podcast into a revenue stream.
Track plays, unique listeners, audience demographics, and episode performance from a single dashboard so you can see what resonates and grow your show.
Add full songs from Spotify’s catalogue into episodes for Spotify listeners, and tap into deep integration with the world’s largest audio platform.
Invite co-hosts and guests to record together remotely, and involve listeners with interactive tools like Q&A and polls built into your episodes.
See how Anchor (Spotify for Podcasters) works through these tutorials, reviews, and monetization walkthroughs.
Anchor — now rebranded as Spotify for Creators — remains 100% free with no tiered subscription plans. The platform offers unlimited podcast hosting, unlimited storage, unlimited episodes, and free distribution to Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and other major directories. There are no monthly fees, no storage limits, and no episode caps. Monetization is available through the Spotify Partner Program (Spotify takes a 50% revenue share on ads). As of January 2026, eligibility requires just 1,000 engaged listeners, 2,000 consumed hours, and 3 published episodes.
Verified G2 and Trustpilot reviews from real podcast creators using Anchor / Spotify for Podcasters.
Anchor made launching my first podcast effectively free — I recorded, edited, and published from my phone in an afternoon. Distribution to Spotify and Apple was automatic. The one downside is monetization feels locked to Spotify, but for free hosting with zero technical barriers, it is unbeatable.
If Anchor is not right for your show, top alternatives include Buzzsprout (premium reliability and best-in-class support), Libsyn (industry veteran with robust analytics), Transistor (unlimited shows on one account for networks), Captivate (built for podcast growth and monetization), and Podbean (affordable with strong monetization features).
Answers to the most-asked questions about Anchor pricing, ownership, and the Spotify rebrand.
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