Does Amazon Prime Come With Audible? Untangling the Audio Entertainment Web

The straightforward answer, and I know you’re itching for it, is: No, Amazon Prime does not come with Audible as a standard, bundled-in perk. While both services are deeply intertwined within the Amazon ecosystem, they operate as distinct subscriptions. Think of them as cousins, not identical twins. One provides a vast array of shipping, streaming, and other benefits; the other unlocks a universe of audiobooks and podcasts. But fear not, there are ways to snag Audible perks with your Prime membership. Let’s dive in!

Delving Deeper: Prime Benefits and Audible Connections

Amazon Prime, at its core, is a subscription service designed to enhance your overall Amazon experience. You get free, often rapid, shipping on eligible items, access to Prime Video (a streaming service in direct competition with Netflix and Hulu), Prime Music, and a host of other goodies like Prime Reading (free access to a rotating library of ebooks and magazines). It’s about convenience and entertainment, all rolled into one.

Audible, on the other hand, is laser-focused on audio entertainment. It’s where you go to listen to audiobooks, original podcasts, audio versions of magazines and newspapers, and other spoken-word content. It operates on a credit system, where you typically get one or two credits per month (depending on your plan) to exchange for any audiobook in the Audible library, regardless of price.

The Prime and Audible Synergy: Special Offers and Trials

The key takeaway is that while they aren’t bundled, Amazon strategically leverages the connection between Prime and Audible. Amazon frequently offers promotional deals for Prime members to try Audible for free, often with a generous free trial period and sometimes even a free audiobook or two thrown in for good measure. These offers are typically time-sensitive, so it’s always worth checking your Amazon account or the Audible website for current promotions if you’re a Prime subscriber.

Essentially, Amazon uses Prime as a gateway to introduce customers to Audible’s compelling world of audio entertainment. It’s a smart strategy that benefits both services, driving customer acquisition and engagement.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Amazon Prime and Audible

To further clarify the relationship between these two powerful platforms, let’s address some common questions:

1. If I have Amazon Prime, can I listen to audiobooks for free?

Not directly, through a standard Prime membership. Prime Reading offers access to a selection of ebooks and comics, some of which may have Audible narration available. This is sometimes available to listen to with your Audible app but is a small subset of Audible’s overall library. Also, Prime Music offers a limited selection of podcasts and audio stories, but it’s not the same as an Audible subscription which provides much richer audiobook content. The Audible Escape package, which used to be a popular offering within the Audible service itself, also provides an all-you-can-listen style of audiobooks for a flat monthly fee.

2. How much does Audible cost?

Audible offers several subscription plans. The most common are Audible Premium Plus, which typically gives you one credit per month, and Audible Plus, which offers unlimited listening to a curated selection of audiobooks, podcasts, and Audible Originals but no monthly credit. Prices vary depending on the plan and any promotional offers. The Premium Plus plan may cost around $14.99 monthly.

3. Can I use my Amazon Prime discount on Audible subscriptions?

Unfortunately, no. Your Amazon Prime benefits, including discounts and free shipping, generally do not apply to Audible subscription fees. However, keep an eye out for special Prime-exclusive deals that may offer a reduced price on an Audible subscription for a limited time.

4. Can I share my Audible audiobooks with my family through Amazon Household?

Yes, you can! Amazon Household allows you to share Audible books within your household. This is a fantastic way to maximize the value of your Audible subscription and let your family members enjoy your audiobooks.

5. What happens to my Audible audiobooks if I cancel my Audible subscription?

This is a critical point! If you purchased audiobooks using your Audible credits or with direct payments, they are yours to keep forever, even if you cancel your subscription. You can access them anytime through the Audible app or website. You will lose access to Audible Plus titles when you cancel your subscription.

6. Does Audible offer a free trial?

Yes, Audible frequently offers free trials, especially to new users. These trials typically last for 30 days and often include a free credit to redeem for any audiobook. Keep an eye out for these promotions, particularly if you’re an Amazon Prime member, as the offers are sometimes more generous.

7. Can I listen to Audible audiobooks offline?

Absolutely! One of the biggest advantages of Audible is the ability to download audiobooks to your device (smartphone, tablet, etc.) and listen offline. This is perfect for commutes, travel, or any situation where you don’t have a reliable internet connection.

8. What is the difference between Audible Premium Plus and Audible Plus?

Audible Premium Plus provides a monthly credit to redeem for any audiobook of your choice, regardless of price, plus access to the Audible Plus catalog. Audible Plus provides unlimited listening to a curated selection of audiobooks, podcasts, and Audible Originals, but it does not include the monthly credit.

9. Can I return an audiobook on Audible?

Yes, Audible has a generous return policy called the “Great Listen Guarantee.” If you’re not satisfied with an audiobook, you can usually return it for a refund or exchange, no questions asked. Check the Audible website for the full terms and conditions.

10. Are there any student discounts for Audible?

While not always available, Audible occasionally offers student discounts. It’s worth checking the Audible website or contacting their customer support to see if any current promotions are available for students.

11. Can I listen to Audible on multiple devices?

Yes, you can listen to your Audible audiobooks on multiple devices as long as they are registered to the same Amazon account. This allows you to seamlessly switch between your smartphone, tablet, and computer.

12. How does Whispersync for Voice work between Kindle and Audible?

Whispersync for Voice is a fantastic feature that allows you to seamlessly switch between reading a Kindle book and listening to its Audible narration. If you own both the Kindle version and the Audible version of a book, Whispersync will automatically synchronize your progress, so you can pick up right where you left off, whether you’re reading or listening. It requires you to own the Kindle e-book and the Audible audiobook, which can be purchased as a reduced add-on if you own the Kindle edition.

Conclusion: Navigating the Amazon Entertainment Landscape

While Amazon Prime doesn’t automatically include Audible, the relationship between the two services is symbiotic. Prime members frequently benefit from exclusive Audible trial offers and promotions. Understanding the nuances of each subscription, and the ways they intersect, allows you to maximize your audio entertainment experience within the broader Amazon ecosystem. So, keep an eye out for those deals, explore the Audible library, and happy listening!