Among the many exciting changes coming with iOS 17, Apple is introducing a game-changing feature that will revolutionize the way content publishers interact with their subscribers. The new feature allows users to connect their existing content subscriptions to Apple Podcasts, enabling them to access exclusive benefits and content.
The Problem with Previous Setup
In the past, if a publisher wanted to offer exclusive podcasts to its subscribers, it would have had to launch a separate Apple Podcasts subscription. This setup was cumbersome for both publishers and subscribers alike, as it required paying customers to pay yet again for exclusive podcast content. The New York Times (NYT) is a prime example of this complication, having launched its own audio streaming app last month to offer its paid subscribers exclusive content.
The New Solution: Linking and Authentication
Under the new iOS 17 configuration, publishers like the NYT can use the linking mechanism to ensure their subscribers can access their exclusive content directly within Apple Podcasts. This eliminates the need for a separate subscription or app. Apple has made it easy for users to link and authenticate their existing subscriptions by providing an intuitive process.
How It Works
For users who originally subscribed to a publisher’s app through an in-app purchase on the App Store, they will see a list of their existing subscriptions upon updating to iOS 17. This list will be automatically connected, allowing them to access exclusive content in Apple Podcasts.
For those who purchased a subscription elsewhere, including directly from the publisher’s website, they can visit the podcast’s Channel page and click on the "Already a subscriber?" link. They will then be prompted to log in and authenticate via the web.
What Can Publishers Offer?
The exclusive content offered through this new feature can be anything the publisher desires, as long as it’s audio-based. This could include ad-free listening, early access to episodes, bonus content, archival access, or even support for favorite creators. Apple believes that news apps, health and fitness apps, and kids and family apps will see the most benefit from this new feature.
Early Adopters
Apple has already secured a handful of early adopters who will make their paid audio content available to subscribers from day one of iOS 17’s launch. These include Bloomberg, Calm, The Economist, L’Équipe, Lingokids, The Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, and WELT.
Additional Features
In addition to the linking mechanism, Apple is also making it possible for users to listen to paywalled audio stories from its own subscription service, Apple News+, via Apple Podcasts. These include professionally narrated audio stories from top magazines and newspapers that were previously only available in the Apple News app.
All of Apple Music Radio will also be coming to Apple Podcasts, offering users an even more comprehensive music streaming experience.
Updated Podcasts App
The Apple Podcasts app itself is receiving a refresh with a new Now Playing design featuring podcast art as its background. The update includes enhanced controls for managing the queue, support for episode art, and a redesigned Up Next section.
Conclusion
Apple’s iOS 17 update marks a significant milestone in the evolution of Apple Podcasts and content subscriptions. By linking existing subscriptions to Apple Podcasts, publishers can offer their subscribers exclusive benefits and content without requiring additional setup or effort. This new feature has the potential to revolutionize the way publishers interact with their audiences and provides a seamless experience for users.
Apple WWDC 2023: Everything You Need to Know
Stay up-to-date on the latest news from Apple’s World Wide Developers Conference (WWDC) by following our dedicated coverage. From iOS 17 to new hardware announcements, we’ve got you covered.
Related Stories