Spotify announced on Monday that Apple has approved a new app update, enabling U.S. iPhone users to buy individual audiobooks directly within the app. The update also allows users to view audiobook prices and purchase additional listening hours beyond the initial 15 hours.
This change follows a recent U.S. court ruling that ordered Apple to stop charging fees on purchases made outside of the App Store. The ruling has led to Apple approving updates that give users more flexibility in making purchases.
The ability to buy audiobooks directly within the iOS app and see pricing is an improvement for users who previously had to buy audiobooks on the web before accessing them within the app. Spotify removed audiobook purchases in 2022 due to Apple’s strict rules around in-app purchases.
Users can now purchase an audiobook with a few taps within the app. They can also buy additional listening hours, referred to as “top-ups,” directly within the app. Each top-up costs $13 for 10 additional hours.
Earlier this month, Spotify began allowing iPhone users to purchase subscriptions outside the App Store after Apple approved an update enabling access to pricing information and external payment links. “This change lowers the barriers for more users to embrace their first — or tenth — audiobook, while allowing publishers and authors to reach fans and access new audiences seamlessly,” Spotify stated.
