The days of free podcasts from the biggest podcast producers could be over. The change was first signalled by the music streaming giant Spotify acquiring boutique podcast company Gimlet Media for US$230 million (NZ$340m) million in February. Spotify has 87 premium music subscribers globally and will now provide exclusive podcasts featuring some of the biggest celebrities and podcast presenters including Crimetown, Amy Schumer, Homecoming and Joe Budden. Luminary Premium subscribers will have access to more than 40 podcasts from leading creators and 1,000 hours of ad-free exclusive content. Spotify premium is NZ$14.99 and both apps will still have a free podcast component.

Source: Stuff March 16, 2019 16:00 UTC