Apple’s podcast subscriptions went live today—with a 30 percent cut
As previously announced in April, Apple has today launched its new Podcasts Subscriptions feature on iOS, iPadOS, and macOS. The system allows users to subscribe to podcasts (or groups of podcasts called Channels) for extra perks.
Further ReadingHere are a bunch of iOS 15 features that Apple didn’t mention earlierPerks can include early access to episodes, as well as ad-free listening. Some shows may offer bonus content for subscribers as well. You can subscribe to a podcast with just one button using Apple's payment system.
Podcast creators can charge whatever they please, with the minimum subscription fee being $0.49 per month. Apple takes 30 percent of that amount for the first year, but if a subscriber remains active beyond 12 months, Apple switches to taking just 15 percent of that subscription fee.
Fortunately, Apple doesn't have any rules against additional ways to monetize podcasts that offer these subscriptions, such as asking listeners to also back a Patreon.
