Google Podcasts App to Shut Down in the U.S. as Company Centralizes Audio Services
Transition to YouTube Music Begins April 2nd
In a matter of days, Google will be closing the curtains on its Podcasts app in the United States. The tech giant has started notifying users of the impending change, urging them to transfer their subscriptions to YouTube Music by April 2nd to continue following and listening to their favorite podcasts seamlessly. While users will have additional time to make the switch, streaming directly from the Podcasts app will no longer be possible after the specified date.
A Popular App Comes to an End
Despite its widespread popularity, with over 500 million installations on Android devices worldwide, the Google Podcasts app is set to be phased out as part of the company’s broader strategy to consolidate its audio services under the YouTube umbrella. The app, which has been a staple for podcast enthusiasts for more than five years, offered a user-friendly interface for discovering, subscribing to, and enjoying podcasts, as well as the ability to add shows via RSS feed.
Learning from Past Transitions
This is not the first time Google has employed a similar transition strategy. In 2020, the company encouraged music listeners to migrate from Google Play Music to YouTube Music before shutting down the former service later that year. However, the Google Podcasts app remained active for an extended period because YouTube Music initially lacked comprehensive podcast support. By the end of 2023, YouTube Music had expanded its podcast capabilities globally, and in February, it introduced the ability for podcasters to upload their RSS feeds directly to the platform.
The Rise of Video Podcasts
Google’s decision to consolidate its podcasting efforts under YouTube could potentially position the company as a more significant player in the industry. This move not only streamlines their focus but also aligns with the growing popularity of video podcasts, which have already gained traction on YouTube. Recently, Spotify announced a partnership with Universal Music Group (UMG) to introduce video podcasts to its U.S. users, following earlier tests in 11 other markets worldwide.
Timeline for the Shutdown
According to a support page on Google’s site, users in the United States will only have access to the Podcasts app until the end of March 2024. Those who miss the in-app notifications will be given additional time, until July 2024, to save their subscriptions using the app’s export feature. While Google has confirmed the April 2nd timeline for the U.S., the company has not yet provided a specific schedule for the rest of the world. However, based on previous statements, the plan is to discontinue the Google Podcasts app globally throughout 2024.
Updated, 3/29/24, 5:00 PM ET with Google comment.
5 Comments
So, Google Podcasts gets the axe for YouTube Music – didn’t see that one coming!
Another one bites the dust; Google Podcasts is out, YouTube Music slides in!
Really? Google Podcasts is taking a backseat for YouTube Music, talk about musical chairs.
Oh wow, guess it’s curtains for Google Podcasts; YouTube Music’s in the spotlight now, huh
Just when we thought Google Podcasts found its groove, here comes YouTube Music stealing the show!