YouTube has become the most popular podcast platform in the US.

YouTube has achieved a significant milestone by reaching over one billion monthly active podcast viewers, marking an important moment for the platform. This success follows Google’s decision last year to shut down Google Podcasts, pushing YouTube to take a leading role in the podcast space. The company has plans that emphasize YouTube and YouTube Music as the main platforms for podcasts, and it appears these strategies are paying off.

In a recent blog post, Tim Katz, YouTube’s Vice President of Partnerships and Podcasts, highlighted how essential YouTube has become for both creators and audiences in the world of podcasts. He shared that video podcasts are not merely a passing trend; they are effectively engaging audiences who are already on YouTube. This is a clear sign that people are using the platform to discover and enjoy podcasts more than ever before.

YouTube has also noted that it has become the most popular platform for listening to podcasts in the United States. According to a report from Edison Research, YouTube is not only frequently used but is often the first choice for people looking to find new podcasts. This research indicates that YouTube has surpassed Spotify and Apple Podcasts in popularity among podcast listeners.

In terms of market share, YouTube Music is leading among users aged 13 and older who listen to podcasts weekly. As of the latest data, YouTube Music holds a 31% share of the podcast market, while Spotify has 27%, and Apple Podcasts trails at 15%. This data includes various metrics based on listening habits rather than downloads, providing a clearer picture of how people engage with podcasts across different platforms.

In an impressive display of user engagement, YouTube reported that its viewers listened to over 400 million hours of podcasts, including both audio and video formats, last year. This figure showcases the platform’s growing influence in the podcasting industry, a trend that is likely to continue as Google fully commits to using YouTube and YouTube Music for podcast distribution.

To enhance the podcasting experience, YouTube has also introduced new features. Recently, they added shareable links, allowing listeners to share specific timestamps in podcasts. This feature adds a layer of convenience for users, making it easier to discuss and share key moments from their favorite episodes.

In summary, YouTube is not just a video-sharing platform anymore; it’s becoming a dominant player in the podcasting arena as well. With its outstanding growth in monthly active listeners and innovative features, YouTube is carving out a significant space in the podcast world. As the platform continues to evolve and improve its offerings, it is likely to attract even more podcast creators and listeners, solidifying its position as a leading podcast service in the years to come.