Revealed in April and planned for a May 2021 launch, Apple Podcasts Subscriptions suddenly was delayed at the end of its intended release month.
In an email to creators, Apple wrote, “To ensure we are delivering the best experience for creators and listeners, Apple Podcasts Subscriptions and channels will now launch in June.”
Austin Distel / Unsplash
In a more recent email obtained byThe Verge, Apple has revealed that the new intended release date is June 15.
Austin Distel / Unsplash
Handling subscriptions from within the app, itself, also means that Apple will be able to apply its 30% commission fees, which will then drop to 15% after one year.
Apple
Another trade-off with the ease of a one-click subscription is the cost of a podcaster’s deeper connection with their audience.
When using the Podcasts app, creators won’t have the same level of access to their listeners that’s afforded by more open-ended platforms such as Patreon.
Apple
Whether it helps or hurts (which likely won’t be obvious for some time yet), Apple Podcasts Subscriptions should be available to all next week.
