Google Podcasts is Saying Goodbye: A Guide to Transitioning to YouTube Music
The End of an Era: Google Podcasts Shuts Down in the US
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After over half a decade of providing a seamless listening experience, Google Podcasts is officially shutting down in the United States. Users have been notified that they need to migrate their subscriptions to YouTube Music by April 2nd, 2024, to continue enjoying their favorite podcasts. While those who miss the deadline will still have some time to transfer their subscriptions, they won’t be able to stream directly from the Podcasts app after this date.
This move comes as part of Google’s broader strategy to consolidate its audio services under YouTube Music. Last September, Google announced its intention to phase out the Podcasts app in early 2024, signaling a shift towards a unified platform for both music and podcasts.
A Familiar Transition: Following in the Footsteps of Google Play Music
This isn’t the first time Google has orchestrated a transition away from one platform to another. In 2019, they successfully guided users from Google Play Music to YouTube Music before shutting down the former service. However, the Podcasts app remained operational as YouTube Music wasn’t equipped to handle podcasts until recently.
YouTube Music Embraces Podcasts: A Growing Trend
By the end of 2023, YouTube Music expanded its capabilities to support podcasts globally. By February 2024, podcasters could even upload their RSS feeds directly to the platform. This move positions YouTube Music as a serious contender in the podcasting space, capitalizing on the rising popularity of video podcasts.
The trend towards video podcasts is gaining momentum. Spotify recently partnered with Universal Music Group (UMG) to bring video podcasts to its US users, following earlier tests in 11 other markets worldwide. This demonstrates the growing demand for a more immersive and engaging podcasting experience.
What Happens Next: A Timeline for Users
Bleeping Computer was the first to report the shutdown date for Google Podcasts in the US, with a support page on Google’s website confirming that users will only be able to use the app through the end of March 2024. For those who miss the April 2nd deadline, Google will provide an extended grace period until July 2024 to export their subscriptions using the app’s built-in function.
While Google hasn’t yet shared a timeline for the global shutdown of Podcasts, they have confirmed that it remains on track for a 2024 discontinuation.
