Spotify is stepping up its audiobook game with the launch of six features aimed at enhancing the audiobook experience.

Compared to audiobook rivals such as Audible, the Spotify experience has been pretty basic… until now. Here’s a breakdown of the six new features introduced, as Spotify looks to continually deliver a “user experience that provides seamless and engaging listening”.

What’s New for Spotify Audiobooks?

  • Sleep Timer: A feature already popular in Spotify’s music and podcast sections, the Sleep Timer now extends to audiobooks, allowing users to set a timer to pause playback. Particularly helpful for those who drift off to sleep listening to audiobooks, users will no longer lose track of where they left off.
  • Video Clip Previews: For those who are ‘scared of commitment’, this feature allows authors to submit a short video clip of the title. These videos can be anything from a video message to an interview snippet, acting as a book’s jacket for users to get a taste of the audiobook before pressing play.
  • Countdown Pages: Similar to Spotify’s pre-save feature for new music releases, Countdown Pages enables authors, publishers, and narrators to build anticipation and promote their upcoming titles. These pages will help readers to stay informed and ready for when new titles are released.
  • Audiobook Playlists: Organise your audiobook library with playlists, just like you would with music. Create playlists with your favourite books, current reads (or listens), or as a reading list for future picks. On top of this, Spotify’s audiobook team curates editorial playlists, highlighting recommended titles.
  • Author Pages: Discover more about writers through biographical pages full of information about their background, alongside their full catalog. Though still in its pilot stage with only select authors currently being available, this feature will make it easier for fans to explore new or favourite authors.
  • Follow-Along: A feature still in testing, Follow-Along is set to create a more immersive experience, available in the “extras” section on select titles. It bridges the gap between reading and listening, allowing users to see synchronised illustrations, photos, and graphics that will help bring the stories to life- much like what you’d expect to find when reading a physical book.

Why It Matters

These updates show Spotify’s commitment to continually improving the audiobook experience available to users on its platform. By addressing gaps in its audiobook offering and expanding what’s possible through audiobook storytelling, Spotify is providing a more enriching and engaging experience for its audiobook listeners.

With unlimited uploads and seamless distribution, use RouteNote to upload your music to Spotify and other platforms, and share your music to audiences everywhere. Sign up for free at www.routenote.com today.