Google Combines YouTube, Google Play Music Teams, Unified App Appears Likely
Google's multiple music platforms – Google Play Music, YouTube, YouTube Music, YouTube Red – have always presented a confusing and even competing mix, portions of which have failed to gain much traction. Now, Google is combining its music teams into a single unit, and a unified music app would seem likely to follow.
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The product teams behind YouTube Music and Google Play Music are being combining into a single unit. First reported by The Verge, the move was confirmed by Google in a statement:
“Music is very important to Google and we’re evaluating how to bring together our music offerings to deliver the best possible product for our users, music partners and artists. Nothing will change for users today and we’ll provide plenty of notice before any changes are made.”
While not part of the announcement, combining at least the Google Play Music and YouTube Music apps would seem a likely next move. Streaming competition is only increasing, including a likely music expansion by Facebook. So merging Google Play Music and You Tube Music, neither of which has gained major traction, into a single app would help them compete.
