Google is shutting down Google Podcasts due to lack of public interest. US users had until April 2 to use the app, while those in India, Europe and other markets have until June 24, 2024. Despite already crossing the deadline date, users in the US can still access Google Podcasts on the web and through the app, at least for now.
The decision to migrate away from Google Podcasts and focus on YouTube Podcasts is part of Google’s strategy to invest more in YouTube as a streaming platform, making it a one-stop service for both music and podcasts, competing with Spotify and Apple Music. So, if you’re a Podcasts user, you might want to explore YouTube Music for your podcast needs?
Google Podcasts played a crucial role in India’s podcast revolution, catering to diverse interests and providing valuable content to millions of listeners. Do you want to know, Why is Google killing “Its Podcasts”?, What are the Best & reliable alternative of Google’s Podcasts?, How US user can still access to Google podcast? and (How you) can use it in future?
What Was Google Podcasts and Its Purpose?
Google Podcasts was a podcast application developed by Google and released on June 18, 2018 for Android devices. It later became available on iOS devices in March 2020. At launch, Google positioned it as a platform to build an enhanced podcast listening experience using AI. The app allowed users to subscribe to shows, download episodes for offline listening, and discover new podcasts.
It also featured features like Trim silence, Cast, show/episode sharing, improved show notes, Android Auto support, sleep timer, and a dark theme. However, Google announced its shutdown in the United States on April 2, 2024, with a migration path to YouTube Music. Outside the U.S., it continued functioning until June 24, 2024 .
It was designed to make podcast listening more convenient and personalised. Users could play the latest episodes from their favourite shows, explore podcast recommendations, and manage their listening activity. Unfortunately, it’s no longer available, but the legacy of podcasting lives on.
How did it fit into Google’s broader ecosystem and strategy?
Google Podcasts was part of Google’s broader ecosystem, aiming to enhance the podcast listening experience for users. While it didn’t achieve the same prominence as other Google products, it served as a dedicated platform for discovering and enjoying podcasts. Its integration with Google Assistant allowed users to control playback using voice commands.
However, Google’s decision to shut down the app in the U.S. and transition users to YouTube Music suggests a strategic shift toward consolidating services and focusing on more prominent offerings.
The reception of the platform varied among users and the podcasting community. Some appreciated its simple interface, personalised recommendations, and integration with Google Assistant. However, others found it lacking features compared to established podcast apps like Spotify or Apple Podcasts. The shutdown announcement disappointed loyal users, but the broader podcasting landscape remains vibrant and diverse.
Why Google is killing its Podcast?
Google is discontinuing Google Podcasts globally, including in India, with a focus on enhancing podcast features within YouTube Music. The decision aligns with usage patterns: 23% of weekly podcast listeners in the India and U.S. prefer YouTube, while only 4% favour Google’s Podcasts. As part of the transition, Google will provide a seamless migration tool for users to move their podcast subscriptions to YouTube Music.
What are the official reasons provided by Google for the shutdown? - Google cites increased investment in podcast features on YouTube Music as the primary reason for shutting down Google's Podcasts.
The company aims to enhance the platform for both listeners and podcast creators, offering unique YouTube-only features related to discovery, community, and audio/visual switching by 2024While the app offered personalised recommendations and integration with Google Assistant, it didn’t gain widespread adoption compared to other podcast platforms. As a result, Google chose to focus on its more prominent services, leading to the shutdown. However, podcast enthusiasts can still explore a rich podcasting landscape beyond Google’s offering.
How do industry experts interpret these reasons?
Industry experts interpret Google’s decision to shut down Google Podcasts as a strategic move. While the app offered personalized recommendations and integration with Google Assistant, it didn’t gain widespread adoption compared to other podcast platforms. By focusing on enhancing podcast features within YouTube Music, Google aims to consolidate services and provide a more robust podcasting experience for users. The transition aligns with usage patterns and reflects the company’s commitment to evolving its offerings.
How Will the Shutdown Affect Google Podcasts Users?
The shutdown of Google Podcasts will impact users in several ways, Here are some of the impact As of me and our research:
- Loss of Dedicated App: Users who relied on Google’s Podcasts for their podcast listening experience will need to find alternative apps. They won’t have access to the app’s features like personalised recommendations and integration with Google Assistant.
- Migration to YouTube Music: Google is providing a migration tool to move podcast subscriptions from Google’s Podcasts to YouTube Music. Users can continue enjoying podcasts within the YouTube ecosystem.
- Adjustment Period: Users may need time to adapt to the new platform and explore its podcast features. Some might miss the simplicity of the original app.
- Broader Podcast Landscape: Despite the shutdown, the podcasting world remains vibrant. Users can explore other popular apps like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or independent platforms.
while the shutdown brings changes, But podcast enthusiasts still have plenty of options to enjoy their favourite shows.
How Does Google Podcasts Compare to Other Podcast Platforms?
When comparing Google Podcasts to other popular podcast platforms, here’s how they stack up:
- Spotify: Spotify Premium remains the top choice for most people. It offers an extensive catalogue, community features like Spotify Wrapped, and seamless streaming across devices. Its free tier also provides access to millions of tunes. If you use both iOS and Android, Spotify is the better pick.
- Apple Music: Hot on Spotify’s tail, Apple Music offers potential better sound quality due to lossless and spatial music. However, it’s more recommendable for Apple device users and not as ideal for Android or PC users.
- Tidal and Qobuz: These platforms cater to audiophiles. Both offer excellent sound quality at reasonable prices. Tidal has made strides in removing proprietary formats, while Qobuz edges ahead with its decoder-free approach and download store.
while Google Podcasts had its features, these other platforms provide a richer podcasting experience. Choose based on your preferences and device ecosystem.
Best alternative podcast apps based on user needs recommended by – Infowire
If you’re looking for podcast apps in India, here are some great alternatives to Google Podcasts based on user preferences:
Disclaimer:- Make sure these are not sponsored recommendations, the list is made by The Infowire after well researched and after personal use (we also checked the users ratings, reviews, and more ). It's our recommendation, and it may vary from others...
YouTube music is Google's recommendation for podcasts users (Not Ours - infowire. ***- Spotify: A top-rated platform offering diverse podcasts across genres like technology, business, news, and entertainment. Its user-friendly interface makes exploration and subscription easy, with personalized recommendations enhancing the listening experience.
- Gaana: Widely used for music streaming, Gaana also features a dedicated podcast section with shows in Hindi, English, and regional languages. Genres include storytelling, lifestyle, and sports, providing a variety of options.
- Apple Podcasts: A household name for iOS users, Apple Podcasts offers an extensive collection across multiple categories. Personalized recommendations and convenient features make it popular in India.
- Pocket Casts: Known for its features and intuitive UI, Pocket Casts allows easy discovery and subscription to favorite shows.
- Audible: While primarily known for audiobooks, Audible also hosts a variety of podcasts.
- AntennaPod: An open-source option, AntennaPod provides essential podcast features and a clean interface.
- Castbox: Another popular choice, Castbox offers a wide range of podcasts across genres.
- Podbean: With both free and premium versions, Podbean provides a platform for discovering and enjoying podcasts.
Feel free to explore these options and find the one that suits your podcast listening preferences and you can contact us, ask your queries about these (below on comment section).
Google’s Podcasts Subscribers worries…
- Content Availability: Premium subscribers may worry about their favorite podcasts not being available on YouTube Music, especially if they’re exclusive to other platforms.
- Background Play Restrictions: For non-Premium subscribers, background play is locked behind a paid subscription. This limitation can be frustrating for those who want to listen without keeping their screens on.
- Transition Process: Some premium subscribers might be concerned about the migration process when moving their subscriptions from Google Podcasts to YouTube Music. Google provides a migration tool, but users may still have questions or uncertainties.
How can i migrate my subscriptions to YouTube music?
To migrate your Google Podcasts subscriptions to YouTube Music, follow these steps:
- Download YouTube Music: If you haven’t already, install the YouTube Music app on your mobile device.
- Sign In: Make sure you’re signed in to your Google account.
- From Google Podcasts:
- Open the Google Podcasts app.
- Click on “Export subscriptions” at the top of the app’s home screen.
- Under “Export to YouTube Music,” tap “Export.”
- In YouTube Music:
- Open the YouTube Music app.
- Tap “Transfer.”
- If you don’t have YouTube Music installed, you’ll be prompted to install it.
- Read the disclosure and tap “Continue.”
Your podcast subscriptions will transfer, and you’ll find them in your YouTube Music Library. Keep in mind that podcasts transferred from Google Podcasts are not hosted by YouTube, so they may not comply with YouTube’s Community Guidelines. If you want to add additional podcasts to your library, learn how to find podcasts in YouTube Music or add podcasts using RSS feeds, Then Contact us or Comment us so that we can guide you step by step or Upload a Detailed article.
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