What is YouTube Music?
YouTube Music is Google's platform for podcast distribution, integrating podcasts alongside music within the YouTube ecosystem. As Google Podcasts phases out, YouTube Music becomes the primary podcast destination for Android users and YouTube's massive audience.
YouTube Music Podcast Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| RSS integration | Reads your podcast feed |
| Video support | Can display video podcasts |
| YouTube channel link | Connect to existing YouTube presence |
| Music integration | Podcasts alongside music library |
| Cross-device | Phone, smart speakers, desktop |
YouTube's Podcast Strategy
Google's podcast evolution:
| Era | Platform | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2018-2023 | Google Podcasts | Deprecated |
| 2023+ | YouTube Music | Primary platform |
| Parallel | YouTube | Video podcasts |
The YouTube advantage: YouTube Music users can discover podcasts from their existing subscriptions, recommendations, and the world's largest video platform.
Submission Requirements
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| RSS feed | Valid podcast RSS |
| Artwork | 1400×1400 minimum |
| Google account | Required for submission |
| Content | Must follow YouTube guidelines |
YouTube Music vs YouTube
| Platform | Content Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| YouTube Music | Audio RSS podcasts | Traditional podcasts |
| YouTube | Video content | Video podcasts, clips |
| Both | Hybrid approach | Maximum reach |
Some podcasters publish audio to YouTube Music while uploading video versions to YouTube proper.
Why It Matters
YouTube Music represents Google's massive user base and the default podcast experience for Android users. With Google Podcasts deprecated, YouTube Music is essential for reaching this audience.
Why YouTube Music matters:
-
Android default: Primary podcast platform for Android users going forward.
-
YouTube discovery: Recommendations from the world's largest video platform.
-
Google Assistant: Voice-activated podcast access on Google/Android devices.
-
Cross-promotion: Connect audio podcasts to video YouTube content.
-
Smart speakers: Nest and Google Home devices use YouTube Music.
Strategic considerations:
| Factor | YouTube Music Impact |
|---|---|
| Android audience | Growing as Google Podcasts users migrate |
| YouTube presence | Existing subscribers see podcast content |
| Video opportunity | Platform supports video podcast format |
| Search integration | Google search may surface YouTube Music results |
The Google ecosystem:
Google Search → YouTube Music
Google Assistant → YouTube Music
Android users → YouTube Music
Google Home/Nest → YouTube Music
YouTube watchers → YouTube Music (discovery)
For podcasters targeting Android users or with existing YouTube presence, YouTube Music is now essential distribution.
How to Use This in Dispatch
Submit to YouTube Music from Settings → Distribution:
Submission process:
- Click "Submit to YouTube Music"
- Sign in with Google account
- Verify ownership of your RSS feed
- Your podcast is submitted for review
Timeline:
- Review: 1-2 days typically
- Ingestion: Episodes appear within hours after approval
- Updates: New episodes sync automatically
YouTube channel connection: If you have an existing YouTube channel, you can connect it to your podcast for cross-promotion and unified branding.
After approval:
- Your show appears in YouTube Music search
- Episodes available on Android, Google Home, web
- Analytics available in YouTube Studio