Where should 'Subscribe to Podcast' link to?

The best place for a podcast subscription link used to be iTunes, but that's no longer the sole dominant player. A simple Apple Podcasts link (e.g., https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id493890455) works for Apple users but is less helpful for others. Several alternatives exist, each with pros and cons:

• RSS Feed: Linking directly to the RSS feed (e.g., http://shoptalkshow.com/feed/podcast/) is technically sound, as podcasts are essentially enhanced RSS feeds. Most podcast apps allow manual subscription via feed, but this approach might be too technical for casual listeners.

• Platform-Specific Links: Creating separate links for popular platforms (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.) is a good option, offering users a choice. However, this requires multiple links, which isn't always feasible (e.g., limited link options on Instagram).

• Subscribe on Android: subscribeonandroid.com generates a link that attempts to automatically open the appropriate podcast app on Android devices. This is a platform-specific solution.

• A "Soup" of Popular Options: Providing a page with links to various platforms allows users to select their preferred app. This is user-friendly but requires more setup and isn't suitable for single-link situations (like Instagram profiles or tweets).

• Spotify Direct Link: A direct Spotify link (e.g., https://open.spotify.com/show/2PUoQB330ft0sTzSNoCPrH?si=ZUYOtZSZQZyrDdo81l7TcA) is a viable option, especially given Spotify's growing podcast presence.

• Smart Links (e.g., Plink): Services like Plink use device, geolocation, and other data to intelligently redirect users to the most appropriate podcast app. This offers a single link that automatically directs users to the correct platform. It's convenient but requires using a third-party service.

Ultimately, the ideal solution depends on context. For single-link scenarios, a smart link service like Plink is a strong contender. For situations allowing multiple links, offering a selection of popular platform links provides the best user experience. The decision should prioritize ease of subscription for the listener.

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