Google has announced the official closure of its Google Podcasts app from April 2. The decision was first made public in September 2023. The podcast app was a popular platform among users around the world with over 500 million downloads. The move adds another chapter to Google’s history of closed projects.
With the closure of Google Podcasts, listeners are being directed to YouTube Music. Google aims to create a better platform for both listeners and creators by taking advantage of YouTube’s unique features. These include better community interaction, better search options, and the flexibility to switch between audio and video content.
Transition from Google Podcasts to YouTube Music Google Podcasts users can rest assured that their subscriptions can be easily transferred to YouTube Music. Here’s how to make the switch:
- Start by exporting your subscription from the Google Podcasts app. Click ‘Export Subscriptions’ and select ‘Export to YouTube Music’.
- Next, open the YouTube Music app and select “Transfer.” Follow the prompts to “Continue” and click “Go to Library” once the transfer is finished.
- Keep in mind that the transfer process may take a few minutes. It’s also possible that not all podcasts are available on YouTube Music. In such cases you may need to re-subscribe to the podcast’s RSS feed.
- Users have until July 2024 to transfer their subscription.
Although many users will play their podcasts while listening to YouTube Music, the closure of Google Podcasts marks the end of an era for the widely used app. The reason for closing a successful service is unclear to many.
As Google turns the pages of this chapter, it becomes uncertain how this change will affect podcasters and their audiences. Only time will tell whether this strategic move will enhance or detract from the podcast listening experience.
