The Correct Size for iTunes Artwork in 2012

In case you missed it, iTunes is now insisting your podcast artwork is 1400 x 1400 pixels.

iTunes prefers square .jpg images that are at least 1400 x 1400 pixels, which is different than what is specified for the standard RSS image tag. In order for a podcast to be eligible for an iTunes Store feature, the accompanying image must be at least 1400 x 1400 pixels.”
Source: http://www.apple.com/itunes/podcasts/specs.html#metadata

The key line here, apart from the image specs, is “In order for a podcast to be eligible for an iTunes Store feature, the accompanying image must be at least 1400 x 1400 pixels”.

Do not underestimate the significance of this because you want your show to appear in the New & Noteworthy category; iTunes’ New & Noteworthy can send you a stack of traffic.

Apple periodically updates the podcasts they’re showcasing in this section and it’s essential you give yourself a shot of appearing here.

How to Update Your Artwork in Libsyn

To update the correct size to your artwork if you use your Libsyn RSS feed to notify iTunes (and all those other podcast directories) that you’ve released a show:

1) Login to Libsyn
2) Open up your show settings

3) Upload your new 1400 x 1400 artwork.

4) Sync your feed

5) Hit save

It took iTunes about 2 hours to update my new artwork.