Apple is gearing up for the launch of Apple Podcasts Subscriptions by striking deals with high-profile studios. Most recently, the tech giant has partnered up with Amazon as a part of its exclusive podcast push. According to a new report, Amazon’s podcast studio Wondery will offer its Wondery+ subscription service through Apple Podcasts.
Launched at its virtual ‘Spring Loaded’ event, Apple Subscription Podcasts allows creators to set up premium podcasts subscriptions that include a number of benefits like early and exclusive access to new series or movies, access to additional content, or ad-free listening.
Wondery+ to launch on Apple Podcasts Subscriptions
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Wondery will bring its Wondery+ subscription service to Apple Podcast Subscriptions. The subscription service offers ad-free podcasts, with early access and exclusive episodes for subscribers. The Amazon-owned studio has produced podcasts like Dr. Death, Business Wars, and The Shrink Next Door.
In 2020, it was announced that Apple TV+ would develop a limited series telling the story of WeWork, based on the six-part Wondery podcast “WeCrashed: The Rise and Fall of WeWork.”
“We’re excited to join with Apple on the next chapter of podcasting and are encouraged by the opportunities this subscription offering opens up for the podcast industry as a whole,” said Wondery CEO Jen Sargent. “Through this opportunity, we’ll be offering our listeners on Apple Podcasts easy access to Wondery+ while bringing them the same immersive listening experience they’ve grown to know and love.”
In November 2020, it was reported that Apple was considering an acquisition of Wondery for $300 million to $400 million. Shortly after, it was revealed that Amazon had acquired Wondery for an undisclosed price. The news that Wondery+ content is coming to Apple’s platform is good news for users who were worried that Amazon could keep the content restricted to its own ecosystem.
According to the report, Wondery+ pricing will be the same on Apple Podcast Subscriptions as it is in the Wondery app and on Wondery.com, at $4.99 per month or $34.99 per year. Wondery’s free, ad-supported content will also remain available. Apple Podcast Subscriptions is expected to launch sometime this month, likely as part of iOS 14.6.
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