YouTube Music has announced a new update that will allow all listeners in the United States to access podcasts on the platform. The company is rolling out the feature gradually, so users who don’t see it yet should hold tight. This update will enable users who watch podcasts on the main YouTube app to continue listening to them on YouTube Music.

All listeners will be able to enjoy podcasts on-demand, offline, in the background, and while casting. They will also be able to seamlessly switch between audio and video versions on YouTube Music. However, this podcast listening experience is different from the music listening experience, which requires a Premium or Music Premium subscription to enjoy some features.

The new podcast listening experience on YouTube Music complements the existing podcast video experience on YouTube. The company plans to expand this feature to other regions in the future, so users outside the United States can also enjoy it. The YouTube Music team encourages users to share their feedback in the comments section and learn more about browsing and discovering podcasts on the YouTube Music app in the Help Center.

This move by YouTube is significant as the company seeks to become a dominant player in the podcast industry. The company has been investing heavily in podcasts and has made several key acquisitions, including those of the podcast production company, Gimlet Media, and the podcast hosting and analytics platform, Anchor.

With this new update, YouTube is making it easier for its massive user base to access and enjoy podcasts without leaving the platform. This move could be a game-changer for the podcast industry, which has traditionally relied on dedicated podcasting apps like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Stitcher.

YouTube has over 2 billion monthly active users, making it the world’s largest video-sharing platform. This vast user base could provide a massive audience for podcasters, particularly those looking to reach new listeners.

The podcast industry has grown significantly in recent years, with more than 100 million Americans tuning in to podcasts every month. The pandemic has also fueled the growth of the industry, as people spent more time at home and sought new forms of entertainment.

As more companies enter the podcasting space, competition is increasing, and platforms must offer unique features and capabilities to attract listeners. YouTube’s new update is a step in this direction, and it remains to be seen how other players in the industry will respond.

In conclusion, YouTube Music’s new update allowing all listeners in the United States to access podcasts on the platform is a significant move that could change the podcast industry. This feature will make it easier for YouTube’s massive user base to discover and enjoy podcasts without leaving the platform. As the podcast industry continues to grow, competition among players will increase, and unique features and capabilities will be necessary to attract and retain listeners.