Introduction
This introduction to “How does it all work? Audiobooks on Audible & Amazon FAQ” is designed to demystify the process and provide you with all the essential information you need to get started. Audible, an Amazon company, is a leading provider of spoken-word entertainment and audiobooks, offering an expansive library of titles across various genres.
From signing up for an account to downloading your first audiobook, we’ll cover the key steps and answer common questions to ensure a seamless experience. Whether you’re a seasoned audiobook listener or new to the platform, this guide aims to be informative, concise, and easy to understand, helping you make the most of your Audible subscription.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means we may earn a commission if you should chose to sign up for a program or make a purchase using our link.
Table of Contents
What is Audible?
Audible, an Amazon subsidiary, is at the forefront of the audiobook and spoken-word entertainment industry. Founded in 1995, it has significantly influenced the way people consume literature and information. Offering an extensive library that boasts over 200,000 titles, Audible provides a diverse range of content across various genres, including fiction, non-fiction, self-help, and more. This vast selection makes it one of the largest audiobook libraries in the world, catering to a wide array of listeners’ preferences.
Audible’s mission is to bring stories to life through the art of narration, allowing users to experience books in a more intimate and accessible way. Whether through commuting, exercising, or performing daily tasks, Audible makes it possible for users to enjoy books without the need for visual engagement, turning every moment into an opportunity for learning, entertainment, or escape.
As part of its subscription service, Audible offers different membership plans that suit various listening habits. These plans typically include monthly credits, which members can exchange for any audiobook regardless of its price, as well as access to exclusive sales and a selection of free Audible Originals each month. This model not only provides value but also encourages exploration of new genres and authors.
Innovation is key to Audible’s success, with features like Whispersync for Voice allowing users to seamlessly switch between reading a Kindle book and listening to the corresponding Audible audiobook without losing their place. This integration with Amazon’s ecosystem enhances the user experience, making it more flexible and convenient.
Audible also invests in exclusive content, producing original audiobooks and series that are only available through its platform. These Audible Originals include works by celebrated authors and performances by renowned actors, adding unique value to its offerings.
In summary, Audible has revolutionized the audiobook industry by providing an expansive and accessible platform for consuming spoken-word content. With its extensive library, user-friendly services, and continuous innovation, Audible not only caters to avid readers but also introduces the joy of books to new audiences worldwide.
How to Sign Up for Audible
Getting started with Audible is a straightforward process designed to quickly integrate new users into the world of audiobooks. Whether you’re an avid reader looking to explore audiobooks or someone seeking a more convenient way to consume literature, signing up for Audible opens up a vast library of titles across various genres. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to sign up for Audible:
- Visit the Audible Website: Start by navigating to the Audible website. You can do this by typing “Audible” into your search engine or directly entering the URL.
Note: You can buy audiobooks on both Audible.com and Amazon.com using the same Amazon account, and all your audiobooks will be in one library.
- Amazon Account Integration: Since Audible is an Amazon company, you can use your existing Amazon account to sign up. If you’re already logged into Amazon on your browser, Audible may automatically suggest using this account. If you don’t have an Amazon account, you’ll be prompted to create one, which is a quick process requiring your email and a password.
- Choose a Membership Plan: Audible offers various membership plans to suit different listening preferences. The most common option is the monthly subscription, which gives you one credit per month (usable to purchase any audiobook, regardless of price) and access to exclusive discounts and sales. There are also annual plans that offer a bulk purchase of credits at a discounted rate. For new users, Audible typically provides a 30-day free trial, allowing you to test the service and get your first audiobook for free.
Note: Choosing between Audible Plus and Audible Premium Plus can be confusing. Here’s a blog post that focuses solely on explaining the differences: What is Audible Plus vs Premium Plus?
- Payment Information: To sign up for a membership, including the free trial, you’ll need to enter a valid payment method. This could be a credit card or an Amazon gift card. You won’t be charged until after the trial period ends, and you can cancel at any time before the trial is up to avoid charges.
- Browse and Select Your First Audiobook: Once your account is set up and you’ve chosen your membership plan, it’s time to pick your first audiobook. Use your free credit or browse through the free plus catalog available to members. Audible’s extensive library and intuitive search function make it easy to find books that match your interests.
- Download the Audible App: For the best listening experience, download the Audible app on your smartphone, tablet, or other devices. The app is available on iOS, Android, and Windows platforms, and it allows for offline listening, bookmarking, and seamless synchronization across devices.
- ✅ Start Listening: With your account set up and your first audiobook selected, you’re ready to dive into the world of audiobooks. Whether through your headphones, car speakers, or home sound system, Audible makes it easy to integrate books into your daily life, transforming mundane tasks into engaging or relaxing escapes.
Navigating the Audible Platform
Once you’ve signed up for Audible, navigating its platform is key to unlocking a world of audiobooks and spoken-word content. The Audible platform, accessible via web or through the Audible app, is designed with user experience in mind, making it easy to find, purchase, and listen to audiobooks. Here’s a guide to help you get the most out of your Audible experience:
- Search and Discover: Audible’s search function is robust, allowing you to find titles by author, title, or keyword. If you’re looking for new recommendations, explore the categories and genres, or check out Audible’s curated lists and bestsellers to discover popular titles and hidden gems.
- Your Library: All your purchased and downloaded audiobooks are stored in ‘Your Library.’ Here, you can easily access your content, organize your titles into collections, or download them for offline listening. The library is synced across devices, so you can start listening on one device and pick up where you left off on another.
- Personalization Features: The Audible app offers various features to enhance your listening experience. You can adjust the playback speed, set a sleep timer, or use bookmarks to mark important sections. The app also remembers your last listening position, making it easy to resume your session.
- Audible Originals and Exclusives: As part of your membership is your gateway to an extensive universe of audio entertainment, offering unlimited access to the Plus Catalog. What is the Audible Plus Catalog? This vast collection boasts over 10,000 titles, including a wide range of Audible Originals, audiobooks, and podcasts, some of which are exclusive series not available elsewhere. Designed as an “all you can eat” service, this means Audible Plus allows you to download and listen for free to any content within the catalog at no additional cost.
- Purchasing Audiobooks: In addition to using monthly credits with your Audible Premium Plus mempership, you can purchase audiobooks directly through Audible or Amazon. If you’re browsing on Amazon, look for the “Buy with 1-Click” option, and the audiobook will be added to your Audible library.
- Settings and Account Management: Within the app or website, you can manage your subscription, update payment information, and adjust your account settings. This section also allows you to redeem gift memberships or promotional codes.
Note: You can only cancel your Audible subscription on the Audible website, not on Amazon’s website.
- Customer Support and Help Section: If you encounter any issues or have questions, Audible’s Help section and customer support are readily available. Whether you need assistance with technical issues, account inquiries, or finding your next listen, support is just a few clicks away.
How to contact Audible support? Go to their website, scroll down to the bottom, and click on “contact us.”
- Community Engagement: Audible encourages community interaction through reviews, ratings, and social sharing features. Sharing your thoughts on audiobooks or seeing what others recommend can enhance your discovery process and connect you with like-minded listeners.
Understanding Audible Membership Plans
The initial step into the Audible world often begins with its enticing free trial, a perfect opportunity to explore the vast library of content. However, the decision-making process intensifies once the trial period ends, as users find themselves at a crossroads: choosing between Audible Plus and Audible Premium Plus memberships.
What is Audible Plus?
Audible Plus: $7.95 a month
Audible Plus membership is your gateway to an extensive universe of audio entertainment, offering unlimited access to the Plus Catalog. What is the Audible Plus Catalog? This vast collection boasts over 10,000 titles, including a wide range of Audible Originals, audiobooks, and podcasts, some of which are exclusive series not available elsewhere. Designed as an “all you can eat” service, this means Audible Plus allows you to download and listen for free to any content within the catalog at no additional cost.
Nonetheless, the composition of the Audible Plus Catalog is dynamic, not static. Each month, the catalog is refreshed with the addition of new audiobooks while some existing titles are phased out. Importantly, members are provided with a one-month notice prior to the removal of any book, ensuring ample time to listen to favorites before they are no longer available
IMPORTANT! It’s also crucial to remember that the access to these titles is tied to the continuity of your subscription. Should you decide to cancel your Audible Plus membership, you would lose access to any titles downloaded through the Plus Catalog except for purchased audiobooks.
What is Audible Premium Plus?
Audible Premium Plus: $14.95 a month
Audible Premium Plus elevates the listening experience by not only providing all the benefits of the Audible Plus membership, including unlimited access to the Plus Catalog, but also adding value through the addition of monthly credits and exclusive discounts. With Audible Premium Plus, members receive credits each month, which can be used to purchase any audiobook from Audible’s extensive catalog rather than possibly paying more for each audiobook when not using credits. These titles become a permanent part of your library, yours to keep forever, even if you decide to cancel your membership.
In addition to these monthly credits, which can be saved for up to a year, Premium Plus members benefit from a 30% discount on any audiobook purchases made without credits. This significant saving, combined with access to member-only sales, offers a cost-effective way to own your favorite audiobooks outright.
What pricing tiers are there for Audible Premium Plus?
In contrast to the singular Audible Plus subscription model, Audible Premium Plus offers a more flexible subscription framework. While all options grant unlimited access to the Audible Plus catalog, they differ in price and the quantity of credits allocated. This variety in subscription plans allows users to choose the one that best matches their listening habits and budget.
- $14.95 a month: 1 credit per month
- $22.95 a month: 2 credits per month
- $149.50 per year (equivalent to $12.45 a month): 12 credits per year
- $229.50 a year (equivalent to $19.10 a month): 24 credits per year
How to Purchase and Download Audiobooks
Purchasing and downloading audiobooks on Audible is a simple and straightforward process, designed to get you listening to your favorite titles as quickly as possible. Whether you’re using a monthly credit from your membership or buying audiobooks outright, here’s how to navigate the process:
- Using Audible Credits: One of the primary benefits of an Audible Premium Plus membership is the credit system, where you receive one or more credits each month, depending on your subscription plan. These credits can be exchanged for any audiobook on the platform, regardless of its price. To use a credit, simply find the audiobook you want, click “Buy Now with 1 Credit,” and confirm your purchase. The title will then be added to your library instantly.
- Purchasing Audiobooks Without Credits: If you’ve run out of credits or prefer to save them for another title, you can also purchase audiobooks with your preferred payment method. Look for the “Buy Now” button next to the title you’re interested in, which will display the price in your local currency. Click it, confirm your purchase, and the audiobook will be added to your library.
- Buying Audiobooks on Amazon: Since Audible is an Amazon company, you can also purchase audiobooks directly through Amazon’s website. If you find an audiobook on Amazon, you’ll see an option to buy it with Audible. This can be particularly handy if you’re already shopping on Amazon or if you want to take advantage of certain Amazon payment methods or gift cards. Once purchased, the audiobook will appear in your Audible library.
- Downloading Audiobooks for Offline Listening: After purchasing an audiobook, you may want to download it to your device for offline listening. To do this, navigate to your library in the Audible app, find the audiobook you want to download, and tap the download icon. The audiobook will download to your device, allowing you to listen without an internet connection. Download times may vary based on the length of the audiobook and your internet speed.
- Listening Across Devices: Audible syncs your library across all devices where you’re signed in with your Amazon account. This means you can start listening on one device and pick up right where you left off on another, whether that’s moving from your smartphone to your tablet, computer, or even Alexa-enabled devices.
- Managing Your Downloads: If you’re mindful of storage space, you can manage your downloads within the Audible app. This includes removing downloaded audiobooks from your device while keeping them in your cloud-based library for future access. Simply go to your library, find the audiobook you want to remove from your device, and select the option to delete the download. The title will remain in your library for streaming or re-downloading at any time.
IMPORTANT! Any audiobook you purchase with money or credits is yours to keep forever.
Managing Your Audiobook Library
An integral part of the Audible experience is effectively managing your audiobook library. With possibly hundreds of titles to organize and keep track of, understanding how to manage your library can enhance your listening experience. Here’s how to keep your collection organized and accessible:
- Creating Collections: Audible allows you to create collections within your library, making it easier to categorize and access your audiobooks. You might organize your books by genre, author, or any system that suits your listening habits. To create a collection, simply go to your library in the Audible app or website, select “Create New Collection,” and add your chosen titles.
- Returning Audiobooks: Audible’s Great Listen Guarantee allows you to return audiobooks you’re not enjoying and get your credit or payment refunded, subject to certain terms and conditions. This feature is particularly useful if you accidentally purchase a book or start one that doesn’t meet your expectations.
How to return an audiobook on Audible? Click on your account in the top right corner > “Account Details” > “Purchase History” to find the return status.
- Accessing Previously Purchased Audiobooks: Your Audible library includes every title you’ve ever purchased, even if you’ve returned it for a credit or refund. This means you can revisit old favorites or download past purchases for a second listen. Simply navigate to your library, filter or search for the title you want, and download it to your device.
- Sharing Audiobooks with Family: If you’re an Amazon Household member, you can share your Audible audiobooks with other members of your household. This feature allows family members to enjoy a wide range of titles without purchasing them separately. To share audiobooks, you’ll need to set up Amazon Household sharing and link your Audible account.
We suggest looking at Audible’s guide for more detailed information: “Manage Family Library Sharing“
- Audiobook Recommendations: Your library isn’t just a place to store your audiobooks; it’s also a source for personalized recommendations. Based on your listening history and preferences, Audible suggests titles you might enjoy. These recommendations can be found in the Audible app or website, helping you discover new authors and genres.
- Device Synchronization: Thanks to Whispersync for Voice, your place in any audiobook is saved and synchronized across all devices where you use Audible. This means you can start listening on one device and pick up exactly where you left off on another, whether it’s your smartphone, tablet, or Amazon Echo device.
- Reviewing and Rating Audiobooks: Part of managing your library involves engaging with the community by reviewing and rating the audiobooks you’ve listened to. This feedback helps other listeners decide which books to try and contributes to the overall Audible community experience.
Listening Devices and Compatibility
Audible’s compatibility across a broad array of devices ensures you can enjoy your audiobooks anytime, anywhere. Here’s a concise overview of key devices and platforms where you can listen to Audible:
- Smartphones and Tablets: The Audible app is available on both iOS and Android, offering features like offline listening, adjustable playback speed, and bookmarking.
- Computers: Access Audible through the website or by using the Audible app for Windows, ideal for desk-based listening or those preferring a larger screen.
- Amazon Kindle: Select Kindle devices support Audible audiobooks, allowing seamless switching between reading and listening with Whispersync for Voice.
- MP3 Players: Audible is compatible with certain MP3 players, catering to those who prefer a dedicated device for audiobooks.
- Smart Speakers: Amazon Echo and other Alexa-compatible smart speakers enable hands-free listening and control with voice commands.
- In-Car Systems: Listen during commutes via Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, or Android Auto in compatible vehicles.
- Wearables: Some smartwatches allow you to download and play audiobooks directly, perfect for on-the-move listening without a phone.
By ensuring your Audible app is up to date and you’re logged in with your Amazon account, you’ll enjoy synchronized listening across all your devices, making your audiobook experience seamless and flexible, whether you’re at home, on the go, or anywhere in between.
Tips for Maximizing Your Audible Experience
Maximizing your Audible experience involves not just navigating the platform effectively but also making informed choices about what to listen to next. Whether you’re a seasoned listener or new to the world of audiobooks, there are plenty of ways to ensure you get the most out of your Audible subscription. Here are some tips to enhance your listening journey, including leveraging resources like us from booktellings.com for curated audiobook recommendations:
- Explore Curated Lists: Discovering new audiobooks that match your interests can be overwhelming given Audible’s vast library. Websites like booktellings.com, reddit, social media platforms and other websites specialize in curating lists of the best audiobooks across various genres and themes, making it easier to find your next great listen for example:
- Take Advantage of Sales and Deals: Audible regularly offers sales and special deals, allowing you to purchase audiobooks at a discounted rate or even snag them for free. Keep an eye on the Audible storefront and your email for announcements about these promotions.
- Use Your Credits Wisely: Your monthly credits are precious. Consider using them on audiobooks that have a higher purchase price, getting the most value out of your membership. For cheaper titles, you might want to pay out of pocket, especially during sales.
- Listen to Samples: Before using a credit or making a purchase, listen to the sample clip provided for each audiobook. This will give you a sense of the narrator’s style and whether it suits your listening preferences.
- Engage with the Community: Reviews and ratings on Audible can provide valuable insights into an audiobook’s quality and content. Contributing your own reviews can also help guide other listeners.
- Utilize the Return Policy: If you start an audiobook and find it’s not to your liking, Audible’s Great Listen Guarantee allows you to return it within a certain timeframe, giving you back your credit or refunding your purchase.
- Explore Audible Originals: Your membership grants access to a selection of Audible Originals each month. These exclusive titles range from documentaries to fiction and are a great way to use your membership benefits fully.
- Adjust Playback Settings: Tailor your listening experience by adjusting the playback speed or setting a sleep timer through the Audible app. This customization can make listening more enjoyable and fit your personal pace.
By incorporating these tips into your Audible usage, you’ll not only enhance your listening experience but also discover a broader range of content that appeals to your tastes and interests. Resources like BookTellings.com can be invaluable in helping you navigate the extensive selection of audiobooks available, ensuring you never run out of compelling stories to listen to.
Future of Audible and Audiobooks
The future of Audible and the audiobook industry is poised for exciting advancements that will transform how we engage with spoken-word content. Enhanced personalization will make recommendations more tailored to individual tastes, while interactive audiobooks could offer listeners a role in influencing story outcomes. Integration with smart home devices will streamline the listening experience, allowing for seamless access across different environments.
Additionally, a focus on high-quality production values will elevate the auditory experience with full-cast performances and immersive sound effects. As Audible expands its exclusive content and global reach, listeners can look forward to a diverse and rich selection of stories from around the world. Furthermore, sustainability initiatives are expected to play a crucial role in reducing the industry’s environmental impact. Overall, these innovations promise to make audiobook listening more immersive, accessible, and enjoyable, ensuring that Audible remains at the cutting edge of digital storytelling.
FAQ
Can you keep audible books after free trial?
When you sign up for an Audible free trial, any audiobooks purchased with your free credit or purchasing a title without the use of credits are yours to keep, even if you cancel your membership. However, titles accessed through the Plus Catalog do not become permanently yours. If you cancel your subscription, you’ll lose access to these titles.
Can you share audiobooks on Audible?
Yes, you can share audiobooks on Audible through the Family Library Sharing feature. This allows you to share your audiobooks with members of your Amazon Household. To share, go to the Your Content and Devices page on Amazon, select audiobooks, and then choose the titles you’d like to share by selecting “Show Family Library”.
Can you keep audiobooks from Audible?
Yes, once you purchase an audiobook on Audible, whether with a credit or cash, it’s yours to keep forever, even if you cancel your membership. This permanent ownership allows you to access your purchased titles anytime through your Audible library.
Can you listen to audiobooks in the car?
Yes, you can listen to audiobooks in the car. Many modern vehicles offer Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to stream audiobooks from your smartphone directly to your car’s audio system. Alternatively, you can use other connections like AUX cables, USB, or even CDs, if your audiobook is in that format and your car’s audio system supports it. For cars without these features, portable speakers or headphones (only recommended for passengers) are an option. Listening to audiobooks in the car is a great way to enjoy literature during commutes or long trips.
Can i import audiobooks into audible?
Currently, Audible does not allow users to upload audiobooks from external sources to their Audible library. However, if you’re an audiobook creator, you can publish your audiobooks on Audible through ACX by creating an account and following specific steps for distribution.
What do i do with finished audible books?
After finishing an audiobook on Audible, you can manage it within your library. You have the option to mark the book as finished, organize it into collections for easier access, or delete it from your device to free up space, while still retaining access to it in your cloud library for future listening.
Conclusion: How does it all work? Audiobooks on Audible & Amazon FAQ
Navigating Audible and Amazon’s world of audiobooks unlocks a diverse universe of literature and spoken-word content, accessible at your fingertips. From keeping purchased audiobooks forever, even after a free trial, to sharing them with your Amazon Household, the flexibility and convenience offered enhance the listening experience. Whether in the car, managing your library, or even contemplating what to do with finished titles, Audible provides user-friendly solutions. This FAQ journey underscores the ease of integrating audiobooks into daily life, promising endless hours of storytelling enjoyment.
