Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesUpdate your iPhone from Settings > General > Software Update, then check whether Apple Podcasts can connect and play an episode. If something still fails, identify whether the problem is the iOS update, Apple’s service, the app itself, or episode downloads; each calls for a different fix.
1. Check for and install an iOS update
- Check compatibility and available storage. Open Settings > General > Software Update. The screen shows whether an update is available for your iPhone. Availability depends on the model; use this screen rather than assuming every iPhone can install the same release. Make sure the phone has enough free storage.
- Connect to power and the internet. Use a reliable Wi-Fi connection if available, and keep the iPhone connected to power during an over-the-air update. Apple says download time depends on the update size and internet speed, so there is no universal completion time. Apple’s update guidance covers these requirements.
- Download and install. Follow the prompts in Software Update. Leave the phone connected to power while it installs, and allow it to restart if prompted.
If you see an error such as “Unable to Check for Update” or the phone cannot verify the update, try again on the same connection, then switch networks if possible. A computer can be another update route. If a downloaded update appears stuck, Apple’s instructions explain how to remove the update file from iPhone Storage and download it again: If your iPhone or iPad won’t update.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Apple iPhone 14, 128GB, Midnight - Unlocked (Renewed) | $300.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
Apple iPhone 16, 128GB, Pink - Unlocked (Renewed) | $574.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
Apple iPhone 15, 128GB, Black - Unlocked (Renewed) | $410.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
|
Apple iPhone 13, 128GB, Midnight - Unlocked (Renewed) | $262.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
|
Apple iPhone 16e, 128GB, Black - Unlocked (Renewed) | $389.00 | Buy on Amazon |
2. Check the connection before changing Podcasts settings
After the iPhone updates, open a website in Safari to confirm that the phone can reach the internet. Then check Apple System Status for a problem affecting Podcasts or related services. A service outage can prevent content from loading even when the app opens normally.
- Only Podcasts has a problem: Check Apple’s service status, then try another network if one is available.
- Other apps or websites also cannot connect on Wi-Fi: Restart the router; if the connection remains down, contact your internet provider.
- The problem happens only on this iPhone: Check whether a VPN or third-party security app is affecting the connection.
- You are using cellular data: Make sure Podcasts is allowed to use cellular data in Settings.
- Connection errors persist: Confirm that the iPhone’s date and time are correct, try another network, and retry the service. Apple’s steps are in If you can’t connect to the App Store, iTunes Store, or other Apple services.
3. Test Apple Podcasts playback
Open Podcasts, choose an episode, and try streaming it. This checks whether the app can load content and play audio before you troubleshoot downloads or syncing. If playback works, but an episode is missing from downloads, skip to the download settings section.
#1 Best Overall
- This phone is unlocked and compatible with any carrier of choice on GSM and CDMA networks (e.g. AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon, US Cellular, Cricket, Metro, Tracfone, Mint Mobile, etc.).
- Please check with your carrier to verify compatibility.
- The device does not come with headphones or a SIM card. It does include a generic (Mfi certified) charging cable.
- Tested for battery health and guaranteed to have a minimum battery capacity of 80%.
If Podcasts won’t open, freezes, or closes
- Close Podcasts and open it again.
- Restart the iPhone, then try the app again.
- Open the App Store and check for an update to Podcasts.
- If no app update is available, check for an iOS update at Settings > General > Software Update.
- Only after trying those steps, consider deleting and redownloading the app. Apple warns that data stored in the app may be lost.
If it still stops responding, closes unexpectedly, or won’t open, follow Apple’s steps for an app that won’t open or respond, or contact Apple Support.
4. Fix missing or delayed episode downloads
If Podcasts opens and streams but new episodes are not downloading, check Settings > Apps > Podcasts. Review Automatically Download, Remove Played Downloads, and Sync Library, then check the settings for the individual show.
Rank #2
- 6.1" Super Retina XDR OLED, HDR10, Dolby Vision, 1000nits (typ), 2000nits (HBM), 2556x1179px at 460ppi, 3561mAh Battery
- 128GB 8GB RAM, Apple A18 (3nm), Hexa-core (2x4.04 GHz + 4x2.20 GHz), Apple GPU 5-core, 16‑core Neural Engine
- Rear camera: 48MP, f/1.6, wide + 12MP, f/2.2, ultrawide, Front Camera: 12MP, f/1.9, wide, iOS 18, upgradable to iOS 18.5
- 4G LTE: 1/2/3/4/5/7/8/12/13/14/17/18/19/20/25/26/28/29/30/32/34/38/39/40/41/42/48/53/66/71, 5G: n1/2/3/5/7/8/12/14/20/25/26/28/29/30/38/40/41/48/53/66/70/71/75/76/77/78/79 - Dual eSIM
- Unlocked for freedom to choose your carrier. Compatible with both GSM & CDMA networks. The phone is unlocked to work with all GSM Carriers & CDMA Carriers Including AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, Sprint., Etc.
- Automatically Download controls whether new episodes are downloaded automatically.
- Sync Library controls whether your Podcasts library is kept in sync across devices; it is separate from the automatic-download setting.
- Remove Played Downloads affects downloaded episodes that have already been played.
A followed show may stop automatically downloading new episodes if you have not listened to it for a while. Open the show’s page in Podcasts and use the option there to resume automatic downloads. Apple describes this behavior and the related controls in Change your download settings for Podcasts on iPhone.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.5. If Apple Podcasts itself won’t update
If the Podcasts app has a pending App Store update that will not download, tap its icon on the Home Screen and choose the option to prioritize the download if it appears. Then restart the iPhone and retry. Apple notes that account payment-method issues or age confirmation in some regions can also prevent app downloads. If the update still will not install, use Apple’s App Store download troubleshooting or contact Apple Support.
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallQuick Recap
Best Value
- 6.1" Super Retina XDR OLED, HDR10, 800 nits (HBM), 1200 nits (peak), 2532x1170px at 460ppi, 4005mAh Battery
- 8GB RAM, Apple A18 6-core CPU (2 performance + 4 efficiency cores), Apple GPU 4-core, 16‑core Neural Engine
- Rear camera: 48MP, f/1.6, wide, Front Camera: 12MP, f/1.9, wide, iOS 18.3.1, upgradable to iOS 18.5
- Connectivity: Global 4G LTE, Sub-6 GHz 5G, LTE, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, USB-C, Wireless Charging (7.5W). (does not have mmWave 5G or MagSafe or physical SIM card) - Dual eSIM Only
- Unlocked for freedom to choose your carrier. Compatible with both GSM & CDMA networks. The phone is unlocked to work with all GSM Carriers & CDMA Carriers Including AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, Straight Talk., Etc.
Rank #4
- This pre-owned product is not Apple certified, but has been professionally inspected, tested and cleaned by Amazon-qualified suppliers.
- There will be no visible cosmetic imperfections when held at an arm’s length.
- This product is eligible for a replacement or refund within 90 days of receipt if you are not satisfied.
- Product may come in generic Box.
Rank #3
- 6.1inch Super Retina XDR display. Aluminum with color-infused glass back. Ring/Silent switch
- Dynamic Island. A magical way to interact with iPhone. A16 Bionic chip with 5-core GPU
- Advanced dual-camera system. 48MP Main | Ultra Wide. Super-high-resolution photos (24MP and 48MP). Next-generation portraits with Focus and Depth Control. 4X optical zoom range
- Emergency SOS via satellite. Crash Detection. Roadside Assistance via satellite
- Up to 26 hours video playback. USB C, Supports USB 2. Face ID
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
