According to TechCrunch, Spotify is testing new features to improve the audiobook experience for Premium users. These include video clips, author pages, and visuals that appear while users listen, all aimed at bringing listeners closer to their favorite authors and stories.
One interesting feature lets authors and publishers upload short videos—up to 30 seconds—for their audiobooks. These clips could include interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, or personal messages from the author. Spotify’s growing focus on video, popular on the platform thanks to music videos and video podcasts, is intriguing news. CEO Daniel Ek recently hinted at more video expansions during an earnings call.
Another experiment, called “Follow Along,” adds visuals like illustrations, photos, and graphics to audiobooks. These appear where the book cover is shown and aim to create a more immersive experience. Users can find these visuals in the “Extras” section and use timestamps to jump to specific chapters.
Spotify is also introducing “Author Pages,” which will showcase authors’ works, backgrounds, and related information, similar to its existing Artist pages. This will make it easier for users to explore an author’s full catalog.
These features are available to Premium users in audiobook-supported markets like the U.S., U.K., Canada, Australia, and more. Currently, only select authors and publishers have access, and the features are mobile-only for now.
