For those utilizing Spotify on their iPhones for audiobook listening, a recent enhancement has streamlined the process for purchasing and downloading titles directly to their devices. Following a significant court decision, Apple has now approved an app update that grants users the ability to see pricing information and acquire audiobooks, as well as purchase additional listening hours directly within the iOS application.

Transformations in iOS In-App Purchases

This shift stems from a recent legal ruling that mandates Apple to permit developers of apps to direct users to external websites for purchases. Previously, customers were required to navigate to subscription sign-ups through an external browser, often resulting in inflated prices to cover the App Store’s hefty fee ranging from 15% to 30%.

In reaction to this, Spotify swiftly modified its iOS application by adding links to its various subscription choices under the Premium section. This enhancement replaces a prior, more limited acknowledgment of subscriptions that could only be accessed through a web browser.

Steps to Purchase Audiobooks on Spotify

Thanks to this latest update, users can now see a Buy button located beneath individual audiobook titles within the app, eliminating the necessity to make purchases via Spotify’s web player before switching back to mobile for listening sessions.

Spotify’s Premium subscriptions and its separate Audiobooks Access plan now come with an allocation of 15 hours of audiobook listening time, which must be used within a specified timeframe. Users can easily top-up their listening hours directly in the app, with each 10-hour top-up priced at $13. To monitor and manage available listening time, navigate to Profile > Settings and privacy > Account > Plan name > Manage audiobook time.

For those who may be exploring alternatives, consider checking out our list of recommended audiobook services.