Apple Podcasts Subscriptions: Everything you need to know!

Apple Podscats Event
Apple Podscats Event (Image credit: Apple)

Apple announced that the Podcasts app would be getting an update that includes the ability to subscribe to podcasts for exclusive content. here's what you need to know.

The short list

  • Release date: Launched June 15, 2021 in over 170 countries.
  • Subscription Price: Up to the podcast producers.
  • Features: Grants access to exclusive content in the Podcasts app.

What special content Podcasts+ subscribers get access to?

It depends on the podcast you subscribed too as it's up to the producers to offer exclusive content.

In some of the screenshots, Apple showed during the event, showed producers that offered sponsor-free versions of their podcasts, exclusive episodes, and early access to content.

While we don't have a full list of podcast creators that will jump aboard Apple did give a clue as to some podcast producers who will be offering Apple Podcasts Subscriptions.

"Listeners will be able to enjoy premium subscriptions from independent voices and premier studios, including Tenderfoot TV, Pushkin Industries, Radiotopia from PRX, and QCODE, to leading media and entertainment brands, including NPR, the Los Angeles Times, The Athletic, Sony Music Entertainment, and many more."

Will all podcasts cost money now?

No. This is just an extra option that will allow podcast producers to offer exclusive content behind a subscription. You can pick and choose which podcasts you want to subscribe to for their exclusive content.

How much will it cost?

As far as we know, It will be up to the podcast producers to set the price for their podcast.

Does Apple Podcasts Subscriptions support Family Sharing?

Yes, up to six users can share a subscription to a podcast using Family Sharing.

When did it launch?

Apple Podcasts Subscriptions launched on June 21, 2021 and are offered in over 170 countries.

Luke Filipowicz
Staff Writer

Luke Filipowicz has been a writer at iMore, covering Apple for nearly a decade now. He writes a lot about Apple Watch and iPad but covers the iPhone and Mac as well. He often describes himself as an "Apple user on a budget" and firmly believes that great technology can be affordable if you know where to look. Luke also heads up the iMore Show — a weekly podcast focusing on Apple news, rumors, and products but likes to have some fun along the way. 

Luke knows he spends more time on Twitter than he probably should, so feel free to follow him or give him a shout on social media @LukeFilipowicz.