In 2022, Spotify, a leading music streaming platform, branched out into the audiobook sector. Initially launched in the United States, the service has significantly broadened its reach to key international markets. While Spotify Audiobooks provide some free access, it is important to note that there are costs involved. Premium subscribers enjoy 15 hours of audiobook listening monthly, while free users can opt for an Audiobooks Access Tier priced at $9.99 per month.
Recently, Spotify announced the expansion of its audiobook services through two new plans aimed at enhancing the experience for Premium users in the U.K., Australia, New Zealand, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. One significant update is that the new plans offer audiobook access for additional family members under Premium Family and Duo accounts. Through these initiatives, Spotify aims to support the publishing industry and provide an enjoyable experience for book enthusiasts. To better serve its user base, Spotify conducted trials for the new Audiobooks+ and Audiobooks+ for Plan Members in Ireland and Canada before rolling them out to more regions.
The Audiobooks+ plan allows individual Premium subscribers, as well as the managers of Family and Duo plans, to add an extra 15 hours of audiobook listening each month, doubling their existing allowance. The Audiobooks+ for Plan Members plan offers the same benefit, with the additional option of sharing those extra hours among family or duo plan members. They can request this access from their plan manager, who can then purchase the add-on on their behalf. Moreover, a one-time 10-hour top-up can be bought if users exhaust their hours before the billing cycle renews.
Spotify has indicated that similar plans will be introduced in the United States at a later date, with pricing varying based on the market.
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