Overview
Spotify, the Sweden-based music and podcast streaming giant, began offering audiobooks to its subscribers in Finland this week. The move introduces a new medium to potentially attract new listeners.
«It may bring people who don't have audiobook subscriptions to listen to audiobooks.»
Industry context
On Tuesday, Spotify started offering audiobooks, joining competitors like BookBeat, Storytel, Nextory and Audible. Monthly subscription rates for audiobook services vary, typically ranging from around 10 to more than 20 euros per month, depending on content access and usage.
Public libraries
Nearly all of Finland's public libraries offer free e-library services, which include audiobooks, e-books, and digital periodicals and newspapers.
Spotify's offering
Spotify states that a 12.99-euro premium monthly subscription includes access to around 300,000 audiobooks, in addition to its broad selection of music and podcasts.
Author perspectives
Industry observers question the benefit for authors.
«Consumers may win in the short term — there are lots of titles to choose from and prices are kept reasonable. But will that mean authors will benefit?»
Yle spoke with Finnish authors who stated that Spotify and their publishers made the audiobook streaming agreement without their participation.
Author's summary
Spotify adds Finnish audiobooks with broad catalog access, but authors worry about direct participation and long-term benefit.