Spotify launches audiobook subscription service in Pakistan

KARACHI: Spotify has launched its audiobook service in Pakistan, giving users access to more than 100,000 English-language titles as the streaming platform continues expanding its services beyond music. The new offering provides listeners with an opportunity to explore books through audio while enjoying several features designed to make reading more convenient.

The service, known as Audiobooks+, became available on November 4. It allows both free and Premium Spotify subscribers to access 15 hours of audiobook listening every month for Rs489. The subscription automatically renews each month, while any unused listening hours expire at the beginning of the next billing cycle.

Users who finish their monthly listening allowance can purchase an additional 10 hours for Rs579. Those who prefer listening to particular books without committing to a monthly subscription can also purchase individual audiobook titles through the platform.

With this launch, Pakistani users can explore Spotify’s international audiobook catalogue, which includes more than 100,000 English-language titles. A dedicated Audiobooks section has also been added to the application, allowing listeners to browse available books, search for specific titles and discover new content.

The platform has introduced several features to improve the audiobook experience. Automatic bookmarking allows users to save their listening progress and return to the same point whenever they reopen a book. A sleep timer is also available, enabling listeners to set a specific period after which playback automatically stops.

Another notable feature is Page Match, which allows users to move between a physical or digital book and its audiobook version. This means readers can continue listening from the point where they stopped reading, making it easier to switch between different formats.

Additionally, audiobooks can be downloaded for offline listening, allowing subscribers to enjoy their favourite titles without an internet connection. Listening progress is also synchronised across supported devices, so users can switch between smartphones, tablets and other compatible devices without losing their place.

Spotify’s latest expansion in Pakistan is part of a broader international rollout announced at the Frankfurt Book Fair on October 7. The company aims to introduce its audiobook service in more than 180 markets by the end of 2026, potentially making the offering accessible to over 780 million people worldwide.

Owen Smith, Spotify’s vice-president of Audiobooks, said audiobooks provide people with an opportunity to reconnect with reading during everyday activities, including travelling, walking and relaxing after a busy day.

Spotify entered the audiobook industry three years ago by introducing the format to its Premium subscription offering. Since then, the company has reported considerable growth in audiobook consumption. According to its figures, the number of monthly audiobook listeners has increased by nearly 40 per cent over the past year, while total listening hours have grown by more than 30 per cent.

Its Audiobooks+ subscription service has also gained more than one million subscribers since launching slightly over a year ago, highlighting the growing demand for audio-based reading experiences.

Founded in 2006, Spotify operates through a freemium business model, offering basic services without charge while providing additional features through paid subscriptions. Its revenue comes primarily from Premium subscriptions and advertising placements. Users can choose from different subscription plans, including Individual, Duo, Family and Student options.

The platform generates revenue by distributing a significant portion of its earnings to music rights holders, including record labels and publishers. However, its royalty payment structure has faced criticism from some musicians who believe streaming payments do not adequately compensate artists for their work. Others have welcomed the platform for providing a legal alternative to music piracy and creating additional opportunities for music discovery.

Spotify’s introduction of audiobooks in Pakistan marks another step in its efforts to diversify its digital entertainment offerings. The new service is expected to provide local listeners with greater access to international literature while making audiobooks more accessible through a familiar streaming application.

Pakistani users can explore the new feature by updating their Spotify application, opening the Audiobooks section and selecting their preferred titles. They can then subscribe to Audiobooks+ or purchase individual books directly through the platform.

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