Apple Podcasts spotlights top 100 narrative series

Apple Podcasts has had chart playlists before, but now it intends to elevate what's perhaps the archetype of hit podcasts — the kind of serialized story that true crime shows use.

"Serialized podcasts are some of the most impactful shows in podcasting, featuring captivating voice talent and best-in-class writing and sound design," Apple's global head of Podcasts, Ben Cave, said in a statement. "They are the stories we can't stop thinking about and are talking about even years later."

"We are thrilled to celebrate this incredible catalog with a new Top Series chart, Series category, and Series Essentials on Apple Podcasts," continued Cave, "making it easier for listeners to discover their next favorite show."

Apple claims that its Top Series chart is the first of its kind in the industry. It will be updated continuously, and alongside it is a new Series Essentials feature which highlights one series that Apple says best defines the category.

"I live for stories in any form — books, TV segments, documentaries, movies, graphic novels... any story, any form," said MSNBC's Rachel Maddow. "There's just something about a single story — one voice, a sustained narrative that builds from episode to episode and then to an ending."

"I really think that most of the best stories take longer than one sitting to tell," she continued, "and that the best stories in the world right now are being told in podcast series."

Apple Podcasts' Series Essentials begins with "Ghost Story," a true crime and historical tale by journalist Tristan Redman.

The new playlist is available on the Apple Podcasts app under the Browse category. It appears to be taking some time to roll out everywhere, however, as at time of writing it is on the iOS app but not the Mac one.