Audible's new Read & Listen tool can double the number of books you finish - here's how
Source: ZDNet
ZDNET’s key takeaways
- Audible launched Read & Listen.
- The feature can boost reading engagement.
- You need to own both the audiobook and the ebook to use it.
What is Read & Listen?
Audible introduced Read & Listen, a feature that synchronizes the ebook text with the audiobook playback. While listening, the text on the screen is highlighted in real time, allowing users to read along—similar to Spotify’s karaoke‑style lyrics display.
To activate Read & Listen, you must own both the audiobook and the corresponding ebook.
Benefits and target audiences
Audible says the combined reading‑and‑listening experience improves retention and comprehension. The company highlights several groups that may benefit most:
- Students
- People with dyslexia, ADHD, or low vision
- Language learners
In a press release, Audible reported that users of Read & Listen read almost twice as much content per month as users who only listen to audiobooks.
Availability and rollout
- US launch: Wednesday (initial rollout)
- Upcoming markets: United Kingdom, Australia, and Germany in the following months
- Supported languages: English, German, Spanish, Italian, and French, with hundreds of thousands of titles available at launch
Audible is also testing a feature that lets users purchase physical books directly through Amazon, mirroring a similar initiative by Spotify with Bookshop.
“Now at Audible, you can read with your eyes too. Read & Listen gives book lovers the best of both worlds,” — Andy Tsao, Chief Product Officer, Audible