Following the delay last month, Apple will begin accepting paid podcast subscriptions next week. In an email obtained by The Verge, the company reportedly told producers and publishers that it will launch the feature globally on June 15.
Apple first announced it would allow podcasters to offer paid subscriptions for their content during its “Spring Forward” event in April. Its pitch to creators was that they could set their own prices in return for perks like ad-free listening and exclusive episodes. Of course, the company would still take its customary 30
With iOS 14.6, Apple laid the groundwork for enabling paid podcast subscriptions, but then delayed the launch by June, shortly after it expanded its affiliate program to include the media. At that time, the company told the producers and postponed the release to "ensure that we provide the best experience for creators and listeners." We contacted Apple on June 15 for confirmation, and we will update this article after we receive the company's response.