YouTube Music rolls out offline podcast downloads, but still lacks key podcast features

YouTube Music can now automatically download podcast episodes for offline listening. Enable in episode settings.
Downloaded episodes aren't automatically deleted after listening. No auto-removal setting yet.
Auto-downloads work per show and device, enable individually. Manage in Library.
Available in latest YouTube Music for Android and iOS.
Still waiting for RSS subscription support to make it a full podcast player.

9to5google.com

Relevant topic timeline:

9/26/2023

Google Podcasts Shutting Down in 2024 as YouTube Music Takes Over Podcasting

Starting in 2024, Google Podcasts will be discontinued as Google shifts its focus towards offering podcast access within YouTube Music, a move that aligns with the preferences of podcast users and aims to make YouTube Music a better destination for both fans and podcasters.

9/26/2023

Google Shifts Focus as it Phases Out Podcasts, YouTube Lite, Basic Gmail Features, and Google Home Hardware

Google is discontinuing its podcast app, Google Podcasts, and expanding its YouTube podcast platform globally, while also shutting down YouTube Premium Lite in Europe as part of its price increase strategy.

10/17/2023

Apple's iOS 17 Podcast Changes Could Reduce Downloads, Worrying Publishers and Advertisers

Apple's latest iOS update, which changed how automatic podcast downloads work, could potentially result in a decrease in download numbers, impacting podcast publishers and advertisers who rely on those metrics.