Google is discontinuing its Podcasts app in the U.S., necessitating a migration to YouTube Music by April 2 for continued podcast streaming. This move aligns with Google’s strategy to centralize audio services under YouTube. Despite being installed over 500 million times globally, the Podcasts app will cease operations as Google focuses on video podcasting and enhances its presence in the space.
The transition mirrors Google’s previous strategy with Google Play Music, signaling a consolidation of its audio offerings. While the shutdown date for the U.S. is confirmed, Google plans to discontinue Podcasts globally in 2024, with users granted additional time for migration. This shift underscores the growing interest in video podcasts and the competitive landscape among streaming platforms.
Google Podcasts app users in the U.S. must migrate to YouTube Music by April 2 to continue accessing their favorite shows. The move follows Google’s decision to wind down the Podcasts app, aligning with its strategy to consolidate audio services under YouTube. YouTube Music now supports podcasts globally, offering users a seamless transition.
The shutdown date signifies Google’s commitment to streamlining its offerings and capitalizing on the popularity of video podcasts. As Spotify enters the video podcasting space through partnerships with Universal Music Group, competition in the streaming market intensifies. Google’s transition to YouTube aims to position the platform as a key player in both audio and video content delivery.
Users are urged to take action before the shutdown date to ensure uninterrupted podcast streaming. For those who miss the in-app notifications, Google will offer an export feature allowing users to save their subscriptions until July 2024. While Google has confirmed the April 2 timeline for the U.S., a global shutdown of Podcasts is expected in 2024, reflecting Google’s broader strategy to focus on YouTube for audio content delivery.
