Facebook says it’s ‘simplifying’ its audio offerings. Facebook is closing down its podcast platform less than a year after it pitched.
Creators will be unable to upload new exhibits to the service as of this week, and the forum will close altogether. Facebook confirmed the closure of the meeting but not the specific date.
The action is part of a broader re-evaluation of Facebook’s audio products. The business is also shuttering the site’s Soundbites and Audio hubs and integrating its live-streaming Live Audio Rooms feature (essentially a clone of once-buzzy audio app Clubhouse) into its broader Facebook Live suite.
Meta spokesperson Adelaide Coronado said that the modifications would “simplify” the company’s audio offerings.
“We’ve decided to streamline our suite of audio tools on Facebook. After a year of learning and iterating on audio-first experiences, we’ve determined to simplify our suite of audio tools on Facebook. In addition, we’re constantly evaluating the features we offer so we can focus on the most meaningful experience,” said Coronado.
It’s not wholly unexpected news. In 2020 and 2021, the audio market was incredibly frothy: established players like SiriusXM and Amazon were buying up podcast networks while live audio app Clubhouse was briefly (and improbably) valued at $4 billion. And so, Facebook — whose owners have never seen a tech trend they couldn’t copy — got involved, too. But, after a year of experimentation, the company has concluded: that it’s not worth it, so stop the tape.
What Is a Podcast?
A podcast is a cluster or series of digital audio files available for downloading or listening via the Internet. Each audio recording is termed a podcast episode. Podcasts are typically hosted by individuals who lead a conversation, share stories, or report the news. The creator of a podcast is known as a podcaster.
How Do Podcasts Work?
Podcasting is a conveniently accessible medium for listeners and creators alike. Podcasters interested in creating their podcast have several avenues to publish their work. Unlike traditional radio stations and television networks, which are often subject to regulations and approvals, several podcasting platforms allow self-publishing. Podcasts are hosted on streaming applications such as Spotify, Stitcher, iTunes, Google Podcasts, and Apple Podcasts (the podcast app with iOS).
How to Listen to a Podcast
For listeners, a podcast operates like an on-demand Internet radio show. You can listen to episodes on a podcast app or subscribe to podcasts online using an RSS feed (Rich Site Summary or Really Simple Syndication). Podcast subscribers are notified each time a new episode is available. In addition, most smartphones, including iPhones and Android phones, will come equipped with a media player, which allows you to subscribe to podcasts and stream or download podcast episodes.