Spotify Premium and Audiobooks: Unlocking Your Listening Time

With Spotify Premium, users now get access to a vast library of audiobooks, marking a significant expansion of the platform’s entertainment offerings. But how many hours can you actually enjoy?

The answer: Spotify Premium users receive 15 hours of audiobook listening time per month as part of their subscription.

Diving Deeper: Spotify’s Audiobook Integration

Spotify’s foray into audiobooks represents a bold move, positioning itself as a multifaceted audio platform, not just a music streaming service. This integration allows users to seamlessly switch between music playlists, podcasts, and captivating narratives, all within a familiar interface. But the devil, as always, is in the details. Let’s explore the specifics of this offering and address common questions.

The Premium Experience: More Than Just Music

Spotify Premium has always been synonymous with an enhanced listening experience: ad-free music, offline downloads, and higher audio quality. Now, the addition of audiobooks adds another layer of value, appealing to a broader audience and solidifying Spotify’s position in the competitive streaming landscape. However, it’s crucial to understand the limitations and nuances of this audiobook inclusion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Spotify Premium and Audiobooks

To give you the complete picture, let’s delve into the most common questions surrounding Spotify Premium’s audiobook offering.

1. How does the 15-hour audiobook listening time work?

Spotify Premium users receive 15 hours per month to spend on audiobooks from the included catalog. This allowance resets monthly. When you begin listening to an audiobook, the listening time is deducted from your remaining monthly allowance. Once you reach the 15-hour limit, you’ll need to purchase additional time to continue listening to audiobooks that month, or wait for the reset.

2. What happens if I exceed my 15-hour audiobook limit?

If you use up your 15 hours before the month is over, you’ll be presented with the option to purchase additional listening time. Spotify offers top-up packs that provide extra hours, allowing you to continue enjoying audiobooks without interruption. The pricing and duration of these top-up packs may vary by region.

3. Are all audiobooks on Spotify included in the 15-hour allowance?

No. While Spotify offers a substantial selection of audiobooks as part of the Premium package, not all titles are included in the 15-hour allowance. Some audiobooks require a separate purchase or are offered through other subscription models. Make sure to check the book’s details within the Spotify app to confirm if it’s covered by your monthly allowance.

4. How do I find audiobooks that are included in my Spotify Premium subscription?

Spotify makes it relatively easy to identify included audiobooks. Look for a specific “Included in Premium” badge or label displayed on the audiobook’s cover art or description. This clearly indicates that the title is accessible using your 15-hour monthly allowance.

5. Can I listen to audiobooks offline with Spotify Premium?

Yes! Just like with music and podcasts, you can download audiobooks for offline listening. This is a fantastic feature for commutes, travel, or any situation where you might not have a reliable internet connection. Downloaded audiobooks will still count towards your 15-hour monthly allowance.

6. Is the Spotify audiobook offering available in all countries?

The availability of Spotify’s audiobook feature and the specific included titles vary by region. It’s crucial to check Spotify’s official website or app for the most up-to-date information regarding audiobook availability in your country. Regulatory considerations and licensing agreements often dictate which content is accessible in different regions.

7. Does Spotify Premium Duo or Family plan also include 15 hours of audiobook listening time per user?

Yes, the Spotify Premium Duo and Family plans also include 15 hours of audiobook listening time per month for each individual account within the plan. This means that each member of the Duo or Family plan gets their own separate 15-hour audiobook allowance. This is a significant benefit for households with multiple audiobook enthusiasts.

8. Can I return an audiobook on Spotify if I don’t like it?

Currently, Spotify does not offer a standard “return” policy for audiobooks listened to through the Premium allowance. Once you start listening, the time is deducted from your monthly allowance. Therefore, it’s recommended to listen to a sample or preview before committing to an entire audiobook.

9. How does Spotify’s audiobook offering compare to Audible?

While Spotify’s inclusion of audiobooks in Premium is a welcome addition, it’s not a direct competitor to dedicated audiobook platforms like Audible. Audible offers a significantly larger catalog, a more flexible credit system, and features specifically tailored for audiobook listeners. Spotify’s offering is more of a complementary service for existing Premium subscribers who want to occasionally enjoy audiobooks.

10. Will the audiobook selection on Spotify expand in the future?

Spotify has indicated its intention to expand its audiobook library over time. As the feature gains popularity, we can expect to see more titles added to the “Included in Premium” catalog. Keep an eye on Spotify’s announcements and updates for the latest additions.

11. How do I manage my audiobook listening time within the Spotify app?

Spotify provides tools within the app to help you track your remaining audiobook listening time. You can usually find this information in your account settings or within the audiobook section. Regularly checking your usage will help you avoid exceeding your limit unexpectedly.

12. Can I use Spotify Connect to listen to audiobooks on other devices?

Yes, Spotify Connect works seamlessly with audiobooks. You can start listening on your phone and then switch to another compatible device, such as a smart speaker or a computer, without losing your place. This flexibility allows you to enjoy audiobooks in various settings.

Maximizing Your Spotify Audiobook Experience

Understanding the specifics of Spotify’s audiobook offering is key to maximizing its value. The 15-hour monthly allowance, while not unlimited, provides a great opportunity to explore a wide range of audiobooks. By carefully selecting titles and utilizing the offline listening feature, you can enhance your Spotify Premium experience and immerse yourself in captivating stories.