In a sad but arguably predictable decision, Sirius XM announces it will shut down the Stitcher podcast app in August. This action will not create any damage to podcasts (that we know of), but will certainly disrupt users
Founded in 2008, Stitcher is a venerable brand in the renaissance of podcasting. At its peak, the Stitcher listening app served 14-million users. (Current usage numbers are unavailable.) Paired with the Earwolf comedy podcast production outfit, the Stitcher/Earwolf combination was a juggernaut in production and listening.
The thrust of this decision seems to be audience aggregation. Existing Stitcher registered users will be shifted to the Sirius XM platform. The decision might have a brand maintenance aspect as well — Stitcher does not appear in Triton Digital’s top 20 Sales Networks in the latest Podcast Report. Sirius XM Podcast Network ranks #1 in that measurement.
“Stitcher, is focused on incorporating podcasts into its flagship SiriusXM subscription business. Subscribers can listen to podcasts within the SiriusXM app and will see an all-new listening experience later this year.” –Sirius XM
On the production side, things apparently remain unchanged. Both Sirius and Earwolf will continue making podcasts. Shutdown of the public-facing listening app will occur August 29.
Not unkindly, Sirius is publicizing how users can export their shows to another app. The fate of Stitcher Premium podcasts will be decided by individual shows participating in that program.
