Google Podcasts Set To Close Down, Users Are Advised To Transition To YouTube Music

Google has announced the impending shutdown of its Podcasts app in the U.S., with a deadline set in just a few days. Google wants to bring all its audio services together under YouTube. This means moving podcasts to the YouTube Music app. They hope this will make things easier for users and help them become a bigger player in the podcast world.

Starting April 2, users must transfer their podcast subscriptions to YouTube Music to maintain uninterrupted access to their favourite shows. Failing to do so promptly will prevent streaming directly from the Podcasts app.

A Brief History of Google Podcasts
The Google Podcasts app, which has been installed on over 500 million Android devices globally for more than five years, has provided users with a user-friendly platform for discovering, following, and listening to podcasts.

Despite its popularity, Google revealed its decision last September to gradually phase out the Podcasts app in early 2024, aligning with its strategy to consolidate audio services under YouTube.

Transition Strategy and Global Support
In a move reminiscent of the transition from Google Play Music to YouTube Music in 2020, Google has initiated a similar strategy for podcast listeners. While YouTube Music initially lacked support for podcasts, recent developments have enabled seamless integration, including the ability to upload RSS feeds.

This transition is not only strategic but also timely, considering the growing interest in video podcasts, a trend already thriving on YouTube.

Implications and Future Plans
The shift of podcasting services to YouTube signifies Google's ambition to expand its presence in the audio space. By consolidating efforts and capitalising on the rising popularity of video podcasts, Google aims to strengthen its foothold in the industry.

Don't worry, you won't lose your favourite podcasts! Here's what you need to do-
Move your subscriptions: By April 2nd, if you have subscriptions to podcasts, transfer them to YouTube Music so you can keep listening.

Export your data (Optional): Google will let you use the Podcasts app's export feature until July 2024. This allows you to save information about your subscriptions, even if you don't want to switch to YouTube Music.

This move comes amidst Spotify's recent partnership with Universal Music Group to introduce video podcasts to its U.S. users, highlighting the competitive landscape of the audio streaming market.

What Lies Ahead
While the closure of Google Podcasts is imminent in the U.S., global users can expect a similar transition in the coming months. Google has confirmed its intention to discontinue the Podcasts app worldwide in 2024. However, the exact timeline for each region remains undisclosed.

Users are encouraged to migrate their subscriptions to YouTube Music to ensure uninterrupted access to their favourite podcasts. With Google's strategic realignment of its audio services, users can anticipate a more integrated and seamless podcasting experience in the future.