Spotify has unveiled a major expansion of its audiobook service for Spotify Premium subscribers, granting them access to an extensive collection of over 150,000 audiobooks at no additional charge.
The feature is set to launch initially in the UK and Australia, with a US release planned for later this year and further global expansion on the horizon.
"Today we're starting an entirely new chapter for our audiobooks offering by making more than 150,000 audiobooks available as part of Spotify Premium subscriptions. To start, we're offering each Premium individual, as well as plan managers for Family and Duo accounts, 15 hours of listening per month-giving them the ability to enjoy as many titles as they want within that monthly allocation," Spotify said in an official announcement.
The company logo of Swedish music streaming giant spotify is pictured on a smartphone in Berlin on January 23, 2023. - Swedish music streaming giant Spotify said on January 23, 2023 that it was cutting six percent of its roughly 10,000 employees, the latest among a slew of cost-cutting announcements by technology companies.
Audiobook Consumption on Spotify
This development marks a significant stride in Spotify's ambition to position itself as a comprehensive audio platform, integrating music, podcasts, and now a substantial selection of audiobooks.
Premium individual users and plan managers overseeing Family and Duo accounts will receive a monthly allocation of 15 hours dedicated to audiobook consumption.
With this enhancement, Premium subscribers gain entry to a diverse content library encompassing over 100 million tracks, 5 million podcasts, and a vast array of audiobooks.
The catalog spans genres and features works from renowned authors, including offerings from major publishing houses and independent authors and publishers worldwide.
Users eager to explore this new feature can navigate the audiobook collection using the search function or discover recommendations on the Home feed. Additionally, a curated selection of top titles awaits users in the dedicated audiobooks hub.
Spotify Download Offline Feature
The ability to download audiobooks for offline listening ensures users can enjoy their favorite titles without an active internet connection. The automatic bookmarking feature guarantees a seamless experience, allowing users to pick up right where they left off.
It is worth noting that to use this feature, users must hold a Premium individual account or serve as the plan manager for a Family or Duo account. While Spotify actively explores additional avenues for broader access to Premium audiobooks, primary account holders on Family and Duo plans will presently receive the monthly audiobook allocation.
"From beach-friendly bestsellers to riveting memoirs to the latest fantasy series, you'll be able to find amazing reads on Spotify Premium. And whether you're in the car running errands or doing chores around the house, audiobooks will transport you to new worlds of stories and sound," Spotify said.
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