Spotify Adds Narrated Articles to Platform
Spotify is now trialing a new feature that provides access to narrated articles, expanding the range of content available on its platform.
Over 650 long-form articles in English are now available to users in markets where audiobooks are offered. The collection was produced by Spotify Audiobooks and includes content originating from publications such as Rolling Stone, Rolling Stone, The Atlantic, Vogue, Vibe, GQ, WIRED, Vanity Fair, and Pitchfork.
Each narrated article is less than two hours in length and is included within the monthly audiobook allowance for Premium subscribers, alongside existing audiobook titles. Non-subscribers can purchase individual articles for $1.99 each.
“With Articles, we’re introducing long-form journalism in audio as a natural extension of the music, podcasts, and audiobooks people already come to Spotify for, focused on topics we know they love. By bringing shorter form content into the mix, we’re meeting audiences where they are to help build healthy listening habits, ultimately growing engagement with books over time,” stated Colleen Prendergast, Licensing Lead at Spotify Audiobooks.
The addition of articles is intended to encourage users to explore longer audio formats, such as audiobooks.
The feature provides listeners with another way to access in-depth coverage of artists, stories, and topics of interest. Publishers and magazines can utilize Spotify’s discovery and personalization tools to connect with relevant audiences.
Since launching Audiobooks a little over two years ago, Spotify has expanded into 22 markets and reached tens of millions of listeners. Listening hours have increased by 60% year-over-year, and the company has introduced features including Page Match, Recaps, and Follow Along.
The company has introduced features including Page Match, Recaps, and Follow Along, and is continually looking for ways to deliver new value for brands.
