Spotify Expands Content Offering with Free Audiobooks

Spotify is set to introduce free audiobooks to its platform. The music streaming giant is currently in the process of finalizing this initiative in collaboration with some of the largest publishers in the United States.

Previously, Spotify’s audiobooks were available on a pay-per-download basis, requiring users to purchase each title separately in addition to their subscription. However, this new pilot program will allow subscribers to access a selection of audiobooks at no extra cost. The company aims to gauge customer interest through this initiative before making any long-term commitments.

The specifics of the launch locations remain undisclosed, but it is suggested that the free audiobooks will gradually become available in a selection of English-speaking countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. It is unclear whether Ireland and New Zealand, where Spotify’s audiobooks are currently accessible, will also have access to the upcoming free content.

Under this new program, users will be able to listen to up to 20 hours of content per month without any additional charges. While the initial lineup of books is still being determined, it is expected to encompass a wide range of titles.

Spotify first ventured into the world of audiobooks in September 2022, offering users access to a library featuring over 300,000 titles, including works by acclaimed authors like Stephen King and Malcolm Gladwell. Since then, the collection has expanded to include more than 350,000 titles.

This move marks Spotify’s continued efforts to explore new avenues for content diversification, potentially positioning audiobooks as a prominent offering within its platform, alongside its extensive music catalog.