Google Podcasts Shutting Down: Users Urged to Migrate to YouTube Music

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.