Spotify has evolved from just a music streaming platform to now offering audiobooks, making it even easier to enjoy your favorite titles. Let me walk you through how to get started with audiobooks on this familiar platform.
Getting Started with Spotify Audiobooks
First things first – you’ll need the Spotify app installed and an active account. The great news is that you can purchase audiobooks whether you’re a free or Premium subscriber. However, do note that audiobooks are currently only available in select countries, including the US, UK, and Australia.
How to Purchase Your First Audiobook
Open your Spotify app and head to the Audiobooks section. You can find this either through the search function or by scrolling through your homepage. When you find a book you’re interested in, you’ll notice a preview option and a price displayed prominently. Unlike music streaming, audiobooks need to be purchased individually – they’re not included in your Premium subscription.
To make a purchase, simply tap on the book you want and select “Buy.” You’ll be redirected to Spotify’s web browser to complete the transaction. This might seem a bit clunky at first, but it’s actually due to app store policies. Once purchased, the audiobook will appear in your library instantly.
Tips for the Best Audiobook Experience
Here’s something I’ve learned from experience – before purchasing, make sure to listen to the preview. The narrator’s voice can make or break your audiobook experience. Also, keep in mind that once you buy an audiobook, it’s yours to keep in your Spotify library as long as you maintain an active account.
Managing Your Audiobook Library
After purchasing, you’ll find your audiobooks in a dedicated section of your library. One feature I particularly love is that Spotify remembers where you left off, just like with podcasts. You can also adjust the playback speed and set a sleep timer – perfect for those bedtime listening sessions.
Downloading for Offline Listening
Just like with music, you can download audiobooks for offline listening. This is especially handy for long trips or when you’re trying to save on data usage. Simply tap the download button on your purchased audiobook, and you’re good to go.
Remember, unlike some other audiobook platforms, Spotify doesn’t offer a subscription model for audiobooks – each title needs to be purchased separately. However, the integration with your existing music library and the familiar interface might make this a worthwhile trade-off for many users.
Having all your audio content in one place – whether it’s music, podcasts, or now audiobooks – makes Spotify an increasingly versatile platform for audio entertainment. Just make sure to check the pricing, as it can vary between titles, and compare with other platforms to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
