Apple Podcast: iOS 17 reduces the number of absolute downloads

In a recent update to its popular podcast app, Apple has introduced a new feature that significantly reduces the number of absolute downloads. iOS 17, the latest version of Apple’s operating system, brings this change to podcasters and listeners alike.

What are absolute downloads?

Absolute downloads refer to the total number of times a podcast episode has been downloaded, regardless of whether the listener has actually listened to it. These numbers have been a standard metric used by podcasters to measure the popularity and success of their content.

Why the change?

Apple’s decision to reduce the emphasis on absolute downloads comes as part of a larger effort to focus on listener engagement and quality of content. With the increasing popularity of podcasts, the sheer number of downloads no longer accurately represents the true listenership.

Many podcast episodes are quickly downloaded but never actually listened to. This can skew the perception of a podcast’s success if relying solely on absolute download numbers. By shifting the focus to engagement metrics, such as the number of minutes listened or the number of subscribers, Apple aims to provide a more accurate representation of a podcast’s reach and impact.

What does this mean for podcasters?

For podcasters, this change means that they will need to shift their focus from absolute download numbers to other engagement metrics to assess the success of their content. Instead of solely relying on the number of downloads, podcasters should pay attention to metrics like average listening time, listener feedback, and overall subscriber growth.

This change also presents an opportunity for podcasters to refine their content and engage with their audience in more meaningful ways. By creating episodes that keep listeners engaged and encourage them to listen for longer periods, podcasters can improve their overall listener experience and potentially attract more subscribers.

What does this mean for listeners?

For listeners, this change means that the rankings and visibility of podcasts may become less dependent on sheer download numbers. It also means that podcasts with high engagement and loyal listenership may have a better chance of being discovered and recommended by the Apple Podcast app.

Listeners are encouraged to provide feedback and support their favorite podcasts through subscriptions, ratings, and reviews. This will not only help podcasters gain a better understanding of their audience but also help Apple identify and promote high-quality content.

Closing Summary

With the introduction of iOS 17, Apple has made a significant change to its podcast app by reducing the emphasis on absolute download numbers. This shift towards engagement metrics aims to provide a more accurate representation of a podcast’s reach and impact. Podcasters will need to focus on metrics like average listening time and subscriber growth to assess the success of their content. For listeners, this change means that podcasts with high engagement and loyal listenership may have a better chance of being discovered and recommended. It’s an exciting time for the podcasting industry as it continues to evolve and prioritize audience engagement.

source: https://www.iphone-ticker.de/apple-podcast-ios-17-reduziert-die-anzahl-der-absoluten-downloads-223628/