Google Podcasts App Shutting Down, Users Urged to Migrate to YouTube Music

In a recent announcement, Google has revealed its decision to discontinue the Google Podcasts app in the United States, prompting users to transition to YouTube Music by April 2, 2024. Despite boasting over 500 million global downloads, Google is consolidating its audio services under the YouTube Music platform.

Key Points About the Shutdown:

After April 2, users in the U.S. will lose access to streaming podcasts via the Google Podcasts app, but they have until July to export their subscriptions.
Google is actively notifying U.S. users within the app, encouraging them to migrate to YouTube Music.
Despite its large user base, only 4% of U.S. podcast listeners utilize the Google Podcasts app.
Google aims to streamline its audio offerings by centralizing them within YouTube Music, aligning with data showing higher podcast engagement on YouTube.

How Users Can Continue Streaming Podcasts:

Migrate to YouTube Music:

Utilize the export subscriptions option within the Google Podcasts app to transfer subscriptions and data to YouTube Music.
Note that while not all podcasts may be available on YouTube Music, users can save them using RSS feed links.

Explore Alternative Podcast Apps:

Popular podcast platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, and Pocket Casts offer viable alternatives.
Users can download an OPML file from Google Podcasts or use Google Takeout to transfer subscriptions to these apps.

Subscribe Directly to Podcast RSS Feeds:

Locate the RSS feed URL for preferred podcasts on their respective websites or by conducting a search.
Simply copy and paste the RSS feed URL into a podcast app or RSS reader to subscribe directly.

Discover Podcast Streaming Websites:

Websites such as Podchaser and Podcast Addict allow users to stream podcasts directly from their web browsers without the need for an app.

Engage with Podcasts on YouTube:

Many podcast creators upload episodes to YouTube, providing users with a convenient platform for accessing content.
Subscribing to a podcast's YouTube channel ensures users receive notifications when new episodes are released.

While the shutdown of Google Podcasts may pose initial inconveniences, users have a plethora of alternative options available to continue enjoying their favorite podcasts.