Source: Wonder
What you need to know
- Apple has held talks to acquire Wondery.
- Wondery is one of the largest independent podcasting networks.
- The deal could eclipse $300 million.
Reported by Bloomberg, Apple has apparently held talks to acquire Wondery, the podcasting network behind popular podcasts like "Dirty John" and "Dr. Death." According to people familiar with the matter, it could be the largest podcasting acquisition yet.
Wondery is seeking $300 million to $400 million in a possible sale, said the people, who asked not to be identified because the negotiations are ongoing.
Apple is one of four companies that have held talks about buying Wondery. Spotify has also had talks about acquiring the podcasting network but has reportedly dropped out of the race.
Apple and Sony are two of at least four companies that have discussed a deal with Wondery, according to one of the people. Though Spotify Technology SA has been the most aggressive buyer of podcasting companies over the last two years, the Swedish audio giant has pulled out of the running, said two people with knowledge of the talks. A deal is expected in coming months, but there's no guarantee that the discussions won't fall apart.
Wondery is one of the largest independent podcasting networks with a monthly audience reaching more than eight million people. Apple is already working with the studio on a project for Apple TV+ that will follow the story of WeWork.
It's possible that the price tag could scare off some would-be bidders, especially since the podcasting industry is still fairly small. But Wondery has a pipeline of podcasts that could be turned into television series and other content. It's already developing more than a dozen TV shows based on its podcasts, including a program for Apple about the rise and fall of WeWork.
Apple has recently put a lot of focus into original content for its Podcasts app. In addition to looking for acquisitions like Wondery, the company has also been working to create podcasts that pair with its original programming on Apple TV+.

Welcome to iPhone 13 Pro (maybe)
Apple is likely to announce a new round of iPhones later this year – will one look like this?

Stunning new 2021 iMac leak reveals new design in five colors
Jon Prosser at Front Page Tech has just revealed that Apple plans to unveil brand new iMacs with a total redesign and in five new colors.

Project Triangle Strategy offers small but unique takes on the RPG genre
Square Enix's latest strategy RPG project is coming to Nintendo Switch in 2022, but you don't have to wait that long to try it out. You can download the demo right now. Here's what we think of this new IP.

Make a statement with one of the best replacement bands for Withings Move
Whatever your personal style may be, make your Withings Move uniquely your own with one of the best replacement bands.