Amazon has announced it is acquiring podcast startup Wondery, with plans to add it to Amazon Music.
Amazon launched podcasts on its music platform in September 2020 and, like many digital companies, has benefited from the pandemic as people’s habits change. The company is planning on using Wondery to accelerate the growth of its podcast business.
Amazon Music launched podcasts in September 2020, and together with Wondery, we hope to accelerate the growth and evolution of podcasts by bringing creators, hosts, and immersive experiences to even more listeners across the globe, just as we do with music. This is a pivotal moment to expand the Amazon Music offering beyond music as listener habits evolve.
Wondery is already known for “Dirty John,” “Dr. Death,” “Business Wars,” and “The Shrink Next Door.” Amazon has assured users that all of Wondery’s podcasts will continue to be available on their platforms of choice.
When the deal closes, nothing will change for listeners, and they’ll continue to be able to access Wondery podcasts through a variety of providers. With Amazon Music, Wondery will be able to provide even more high-quality, innovative content and continue their mission of bringing a world of entertainment and knowledge to their audiences, wherever they listen.
Details of the deal were not disclosed, but reports in early December placed the value somewhere between $300 and $400 million. Amazon’s investment in the startup is further evidence of the importance of the podcast industry.