Spotify launches audiobooks in South Africa

Spotify has finally launched audiobooks in South Africa with a selection of over 150 000 audio book titles.

Premium subscribers will get access to 12 hours of audiobook listening time from the full 150 000 title catalogue. They have the option to top it up to an additional 10 hours.

The company says its extensive catalogue includes Shining Girls by South African author Lauren Beukes, Heated Rivalry, Fourth Wing and You and Me on Vacation.

Audiobook categories include Mystery & Thriller, Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Self Help, Biography & Memoir, Romance, Children & Family, Fiction & Literature, Teen & Young Adult, History, Technology, Sports, Non-fiction, etc.

The new audiobooks feature is available to Premium Individual subscribers, and Duo and Family plan managers, according to its website, while users on its free tier can purchase audiobook from the web interface.

And for those who want an even wider selection, whether on Premium or if on a free tiers, users can discover up to 375 000 titles available for purchase from the Spotify Web Player to listen on any device.

The Spotify app will remember where you stopped listening and carry on, so users don’t have to worry about looking for bookmarks.

The company adds that it supports creators on its ecosystem.

“For publishers, audiobooks offer a scalable distribution channel and new ways to understand how audiences are engaging with their titles. For authors, it can increase visibility in a space where millions already spend their time, helping turn casual listeners into loyal readers.”

Spotify Audiobooks features

• Find the Audiobooks hub: Go to the top of your Spotify homepage and look for the Audiobooks hub. If you know what you want, use Search to find a title directly.
• Discover: Browse recommended picks, including sections featuring new and trending titles.
• Try before you commit: Listen to snippets, read short reviews, and follow your favourite authors in the app.
• Save to your library: Save titles for easy access, whether you are listening online or offline.

Spotify says beyond the basic features, users can easily switch between formats.

“Page Match helps you continue listening from where you stopped reading. Scan a page from your physical book or e-book in the app, and Spotify will match the audio so you can move seamlessly between reading and listening without losing your place.”

Just a few months ago in the middle of November, Spotify piloted new subscription plans and pricings:

• Premium Student – R47.99 per month
• Premium Lite – R69.99 per month
• Premium Standard – R94.99 per month
• Premium Platinum – R179.99 per month

More information can be found on Recharged:

Spotify South Africa pilots new subscription plans