One of the most popular podcast apps, based in S.F., is shutting down
The popular San Francisco-based podcast app Stitcher will go silent this summer as its owner, SiriusXM, announced plans to shut down its apps and web-streaming audio service on Aug. 29.
The company made the announcement through a notice titled “Stitcher Farewell” posted on its website on Tuesday, June 27. SiriusXM intends to integrate all podcasts into its flagship SiriusXM subscription business, aiming to drive growth. “Subscribers can listen to podcasts within the SiriusXM app and will see an all-new listening experience later this year,” the note said.
The company said there will be no layoffs or staffing changes as a result of the move.
An internal memo signed by company leaders assured employees that its wide range of podcast offerings “remains a crucial accelerant for our advertising sales business,” leading to the decision to consolidate its programming and sunset the standalone podcast listening app.
Stitcher Premium will also be discontinued. This service allowed subscribers to listen to podcasts ad-free for $4.99 a month. As compensation, these customers will receive a complimentary six-month trial offer for SiriusXM Streaming Platinum, which costs $10.99 per month and provides access to SiriusXM stations and podcasts.
The notice stated that hosts and creators whose podcasts are available exclusively on Stitcher Premium “will determine availability and accessibility of their shows.” It recommended that listeners follow them on social media or subscribe to their newsletters to stay updated about their status.
Stitcher was established in 2008 and changed ownership multiple times before SiriusXM acquired the service from E.W. Scripps in 2020 for a deal valued at up to $325 million. Scripps had purchased Stitcher in 2016 for $4.5 million.
According to Comscore data as of March, Stitcher’s app and website boasted a combined 900,000 unique visitors. Notably, podcasts such as “WTF With Marc Maron,” “Let’s Talk Off Camera With Kelly Ripa” and “Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend” found a home on the Stitcher platform. However, many of these podcasts will still be available through other apps.
Stitcher added that it will provide refunds to those who decide not to make the move to SiriusXM.
Source: San Francisco Chronicle
