Stitcher, a well-known podcast application and web service, is set to close down. SiriusXM, which purchased the platform for $325 million in 2020, confirmed that Stitcher would be discontinued on August 29th as stated in the FAQ section of the platform’s website (as reported by Variety). This strategic decision aims to encourage Stitcher’s users to transition to the wider SiriusXM platform.
In an announcement about the impending shutdown, SiriusXM stated, “We are committed to integrating podcasts into our core SiriusXM subscription service. Our subscribers will have access to podcasts via the SiriusXM app and can anticipate an enhanced listening experience later this year.” Furthermore, the statement confirmed that Stitcher Studios and its Earwolf comedy network will continue to produce podcasts. While Stitcher indicated that its premium content might persist on other platforms, it noted that “show hosts/creators will dictate the availability and accessibility of their shows.” Stitcher encouraged users to follow their favorite podcast creators on social media to stay informed about the future of specific shows.
Stitcher has gained popularity for its exclusive and cross-platform podcasts, including high-profile shows like Freakonomics Radio, The Video Archives Podcast with Quentin Tarantino and Roger Avary, LeVar Burton Reads, and Science Rules! With Bill Nye. The application is appreciated for its easy navigation, comprehensive library, and personalized recommendations.
Stitcher started as a startup in 2008, focusing on its listening app. In 2014, it was acquired by Deezer and then sold to Midroll Media in 2016. E.W. Scripps Company, its parent company, eventually sold it to SiriusXM in 2020, which announced its closure today.
From today, Stitcher has stopped automatic renewals for paid subscriptions and has outlined the refund process for premium members. Existing subscribers do not need to do anything to cancel their subscriptions. Those with annual subscriptions set to renew after August 29th will get a prorated refund for the unused part of their paid subscription. The full terms can be found here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Stitcher Shutdown
When is the podcast app Stitcher shutting down?
Stitcher is shutting down on August 29th.
Who currently owns Stitcher?
Stitcher is owned by SiriusXM, which acquired it in 2020.
What will happen to the podcasts currently available on Stitcher?
Stitcher Studios and its Earwolf comedy network will continue producing podcasts. The availability and accessibility of other shows will be determined by their respective hosts/creators. Stitcher’s premium content may continue elsewhere.
What is the recommended course of action for existing Stitcher subscribers?
Stitcher has discontinued automatic renewal for paid subscriptions. Existing subscribers don’t need to do anything to cancel their subscriptions. Those with annual subscriptions set to renew after August 29th will receive a prorated refund for the unused portion of their paid year.
What platform does SiriusXM want to transition Stitcher users to?
SiriusXM aims to transition Stitcher users to the wider SiriusXM platform, where they can continue to listen to podcasts.
What will happen to the user-friendly features of Stitcher?
SiriusXM intends to provide an all-new listening experience on its own platform, but specifics about the features are yet to be announced.
More about Stitcher Shutdown
- Stitcher’s FAQ
- Variety’s report on Stitcher’s Shutdown
- SiriusXM’s official announcement
- Stitcher’s history
6 comments
This is such a shock! Loved Stitcher’s interface, hope SiriusXM can match up.
325 million dollars and they’re shutting it down. Big corp decisions, amirite?
wait…so what happens to my subscription. do i get a refund?
Noooo… LeVar Burton Reads was my fav. Hope it survives this.
well… another one bites the dust. will miss their recs tho.
oh man, thats a bummer! stitcher had some good stuff. guess I’m off to siriusXM now then…