YouTube is banking on recommendations and archived content for the future of podcasts

Google is positioning YouTube Music as the ultimate destination for podcast users, leveraging a recommendation system and a back catalog to offer a wide range of content. Podcasts have been available on YouTube Music globally since late last year, providing users with the ability to watch, listen, and use features like adding episodes to a play queue or accessing content offline without a Premium subscription.

With a commitment to podcasts on YouTube, Google has made the decision to discontinue its dedicated Google Podcasts service, which has already been shut down in the United States and will cease operations internationally on June 2. The platform has also added support for subscribing to podcasts via RSS, private RSS feeds in the library, and improved listening experiences on Android Auto.

YouTube Music has redesigned its recommendation algorithms to help creators and listeners discover new content effortlessly. The goal is to make YouTube Music the definitive destination for podcasters and followers, as mentioned in the official blog. The platform’s visual component has been highlighted as a creative addition to traditional podcast consumption that complements the voice.

Google is considering using artificial intelligence to create background visuals for podcasts in the future. The recommendation system and the extensive back catalog of content are seen as advantages for both users and creators, offering a mix of recent and older content to explore. The platform is aiming to enhance the overall podcast experience on YouTube Music and establish itself as a go-to destination for podcast enthusiasts.