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Switch podcast apps and keep your shows
Export one file from your old app, import it here, done. It takes a few minutes, it is free, and you don't need an account.
Ken built The Podcast App after Google Podcasts shut down, because he couldn't find a player he liked. It feels close to Google Podcasts in layout and everyday use, with a few improvements to keep it modern. It runs on iPhone and Android.
The four steps
- Export an OPML file from your current app. OPML is the standard file every podcast app uses for a subscription list. The exact menu for each app is below.
- Install The Podcast App from the App Store or Google Play. You don't need to sign in.
- Import the file: open Settings, then Manage Subscriptions (Import/Export), then Import from File, and pick your OPML file. On a new install, the Import button on the empty Home screen opens the same screen.
- Check, then download. Make sure the number of shows matches, open a couple of smaller shows to see that they loaded, then download the episodes you want on Wi-Fi. Auto-download starts off for imported shows, so a big library won't fill your phone.
Exporting from your current app
Apple Podcasts
The iPhone app has no OPML export. On a Mac, some versions of Podcasts offer an export from the File menu. If yours doesn't, list your shows in the OPML generator: search each one, then download the file.
Spotify
Spotify has no OPML export. Write down the shows you follow (a screenshot of your library works), then search each one in The Podcast App and tap Subscribe. For a long list, build one file in the OPML generator and import it in one go.
Pocket Casts
In Settings, use the export option for your subscriptions (OPML). Save the file, then import it.
Overcast
Sign in at overcast.fm/account and use Export Your Data to get the OPML file. Some versions of the app also have an OPML export in Settings.
Other apps
AntennaPod, Castro and most other players have an OPML export in their settings. Google Podcasts exports you saved before it closed import the same way.
What moves and what doesn't
| Item | Moves with OPML? | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Your subscriptions | Yes | Import once |
| Downloaded episodes | No | Download again on Wi-Fi. Downloads are free and unlimited. |
| Playback position, queue, playlists | No | Rebuild the ones you still want |
| Spotify follows | No, there is no export | Search each show and subscribe |
The importer reads each show's name and public feed address. Folders in the file are flattened into one list. Addresses that are not normal web links, or that point to a private network, are skipped and counted in the import summary.
If something looks wrong
Missing artwork or episodes: the feed may not have refreshed yet. Wait a minute, or remove the show and add it again from search.
A show appears twice: it was in the file twice, or under two addresses. Unsubscribe from one copy.
A feed won't load: check its address with the RSS validator. Private feeds that need a login have to be added by hand.
Still stuck? Contact support.
Leaving later
Your list is never locked in. Settings, Manage Subscriptions (Import/Export), Export Subscriptions writes a standard OPML file that any podcast app can import. Signing in is optional; it adds sync across your devices.
Still choosing an app? See how The Podcast App compares with Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts and Overcast.
Bring your shows over
Free on iPhone and Android. No account needed to start.
