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As of April 2, 2024, Google has officially ceased operations of Google Podcasts, transitioning its focus towards creating a more unified and enriched podcast experience on YouTube Music. This move comes after Google announced earlier this year its intentions to offer podcast creators and listeners a centralized platform that combines the best of music and podcasting in one place. For fans and creators alike, this shift signifies a new chapter in accessing and sharing content across both audio and video formats.
With Google Podcasts now discontinued in the U.S., users are encouraged to migrate their subscriptions to YouTube Music by July 2024 to retain access to their favorite podcasts. Google Podcasts has long been a staple for free podcast subscriptions, downloads for offline playback, and cross-device syncing—features that have significantly enhanced the listening experience for users.
Important Considerations Before Migrating
Google assures users of a straightforward migration process, having spent nearly a year developing a system designed to provide a seamless experience across YouTube and YouTube Music. Those who do not migrate by the deadline risk losing their podcasts.
Migration Process
To initiate the migration, users can utilize a tool accessible via a banner at the top of the Google Podcasts screen. Additionally, the process for transferring subscriptions to YouTube is outlined for users.
Podcasts can be exported as OPML files, which can then be uploaded to any compatible podcast app. This migration tool has been crafted to facilitate a smooth transition for both listeners and podcasters.
According to a YouTube Blog post, numerous popular Google Podcasts are already available on YouTube. For those not yet on the platform, listeners have the option to add shows directly to their YouTube Music library using the podcast’s RSS feed.
Google reassures podcasters that this new endeavor will not only open doors to new audiences but also introduce innovative features. These include new analytics tools, RSS feed uploads to YouTube, and additional benefits designed to enrich the podcasting experience.
How to Export Your Google Podcasts to YouTube Music
The export process is straightforward. Ensure you are logged into your account and navigate to the Google Podcasts app. The migration tool, located at the top of the screen, includes an “Export Subscriptions” option.
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If you previously couldn’t find this option, it’s worth checking again, as Google continues to refine the migration process. This update was officially announced on December 18, indicating ongoing efforts to enhance user experience.
Follow these steps carefully:
Visit Google Podcasts app
Select Export under ‘Export to YouTube Music’ option
Select Transfer on the app
Select Continue
Select Go to Library to view your subscriptions once the transfer is complete.
Google suggests patience during the subscription transfer process to YouTube Music, acknowledging that it might take some time for your podcasts to move over. So, it’s best to hang tight and allow the process to unfold.
Key Points to Remember
Currently, the ability to export Google Podcasts to YouTube Music is exclusively available in the United States. As for when this feature will become available globally, the timeline remains uncertain. Users outside the United States have reported not seeing this option, despite having the latest versions of both applications.
For U.S. users, the cutoff date for Google Podcasts is April 2, 2024. This deadline does not currently affect users in other countries. Yet, some industry experts speculate that the end date for Google Podcasts may eventually apply worldwide.
Should you encounter a “Content is unavailable” message, it indicates that not all podcasts have made their way to YouTube Music. If your favorite podcast is missing, you can still add it to your YouTube Music library using the podcast’s RSS feed link.
Final Thoughts
Google has a history of discontinuing services, much to the dismay of its users. Many fans have expressed they will miss Google Podcasts’ extensive library, straightforward controls, and sleek interface. Despite this, Google asserts that integrating podcasts into YouTube Music aims to enhance the platform, making it a more comprehensive hub for both listeners and podcast creators.
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