Apple announced Apple Podcasts Subscriptions at this week’s Spring Loaded event, designed to help podcast creators monetize their content and offer exclusive content in exchange for a small fee. Rather than a premium podcast subscription service as had previously been suggested, Apple’s model is similar to Apple TV Channels, where users can pay for just the content they want to subscribe to, and nothing else.
Below, we’ve put together some reasons to support the scheme when it launches next month.
No more advertising
Perhaps one of the biggest benefits of Apple Podcasts Subscriptions is that you get to listen to content from your favorite creators without having to sit through endless advertisements and product placements. It’s a common complaint in the podcasting world and finding the right balance between monetizing content and not alienating listeners has been tough. Say goodbye to those annoying Hello Fresh subscription adverts!
Give back to content creators
Podcasts as a genre have grown exponentially over the past few years, and in 2020 alone, reported record growth as consumers spent more time at home. Although many podcasters have launched their own books, merchandise, and subscription models on sites like Patreon, subscribing directly to their podcast offers them another revenue stream.
Pay with your wallet
According to a recent report, 12% of all podcasts only ever publish one episode. Although you can’t force your favorite creator to keep pumping out new material, supporting their show with a subscription will give them the motivation to continue making new content.
Support Apple’s new monetization method
If you’re a fan of Apple and want to support its venture into new service offerings, supporting podcasters on the platform is another good idea. Unlike Spotify, which puts premium podcasts behind its subscription price, pricing for each subscription is set by creators and billed monthly by default. Creators can additionally offer annual billing, which subscribers can manage from their Apple ID account settings, now accessible from Listen Now. Listeners will also be able to access free trials and sample episodes offered by creators.
Save money
As we’ve just touched upon, Spotify charges users $9.99 per month to gain access to exclusive podcasts. With Apple, you only pay for the premium content you want, potentially saving you a lot of money.
Will you be supporting Apple Podcasts? Let us know and check back soon for more.
