2019 will see the end of baked-in, generic podcast ads
Holiday season is the time for podcast fans to binge on shows and explore new content. Here, Whooshka’s Corey Layton’s is here with a look ahead at what’s in store for the year to come.
Before we dive into my predictions for 2019, a quick recap on my predictions for 2018.
“Expect to see Spotify take a bite out of Apple’s dominance, introducing its dedicated listener base to podcasts.” ✓ The music giant made significant moves into podcasts adding content into directories with investment in original shows.
“For Android users, Google will engage to become a true cross-platform destination for podcasts”. ✓¾ Google since launched a native podcast app for Android users aiming to ‘double worldwide podcast audiences’.
Another issue that is yet to be raised is the licensing of music within podcasts that feature music like that pop-music countdown or documentary about a musician or music as part of society. In some cases, it may be a scripted drama that uses one or more songs or pieces run in their entirety due to the fact that they may set the scene for a moment.
In this context, there will be the issue of licensing the music across borders or whether songs and pieces can be run in their entirety or major parts of these works can be used as part of the show. The issue that will also rise is having to be careful about certain popular songs that may offend certain countries and societies.
What needs to happen regarding music in podcasts is how to simplify the process of licensing the music so it becomes less onerous on the podcast author.