“We’re thrilled to offer customers a convenient podcast listening experience that fits their lifestyle,” said Kintan Brahmbhatt, Director of Podcasts for Amazon Music. “Never before has listening to podcasts on the move, in the car, or at home been so simple. Our customers will be able to utilise the voice functionality they know and love with music, to now enjoy a superior podcast experience and uncover a brand-new selection of favourites.”
Of course, Spotify is also increasingly looking to podcasts to differentiate itself from music streaming rivals, including Amazon Music, Apple Music, Deezer, TiDAL, and more. Spotify boasts a number of popular exclusives, including The Joe Rogan Experience. It also recently acquired two vast podcast networks – Gimlet Media (known for Reply All) and Parcast (a true-crime and mystery network).
In contrast, Apple Music seems to be relying on its network of live radio stations – with presenters including Zane Lowe, Elton John, Kelleigh Bannen, Rebecca Judd, Shania Twain and others. It also benefits from being the default music app in iOS (something that cannot be changed by iPhone owners) and being bundled as part of the newly-announced Apple One subscription.