For years, Google has been experimenting with different platforms to expand into the booming podcast market. In September, they announced plans to retire the Google Podcasts app. Now they have shared that it will shut down in April 2024 as part of a strategic shift.
Google is consolidating its podcast offerings on YouTube Music, which launched in late 2022. This will provide listeners a single destination for both music and podcasts. It comes after prior standalone apps like Google Listen, Google Play Music Podcasts, and Google Podcasts failed to gain traction.
YouTube Music will be Google’s fourth attempt to engage podcast fans. Google Podcasts operated for over five years, amassing a catalog of shows across many genres. It supported subscriptions, cross-device listening, and was accessible via phones, laptops, and speakers.
To ease the transition, Google has implemented a simple migration path. Users have until April 2024 to use the existing app before it sunsets. They can then transfer their lists to YouTube Music with one click at music.youtube.com/transfer_podcasts. Subscriptions can also be downloaded as an OPML file for importing into other podcast apps through August 2024.
This consolidation comes as Google refines its podcast tools and analytics. Creators should see enhanced discovery and insights on YouTube Music. For listeners, it promises an improved experience of discovering both music and shows in a single integrated service.
While change can be an adjustment, Google aims to provide resources minimizing disruption. This strategic shift to YouTube Music displays their long-term commitment to the booming audio market, delivering content seamlessly across platforms. It marks the closing of one chapter but the start of new opportunities within Google’s growing podcast ecosystem.
