Spotify launches narrated magazine articles

Spotify announced on Tuesday that it will launch narrated articles from major publications including Rolling Stone, The Atlantic, Vogue, Variety, and Vanity Fair for users of its audiobook service, as the streaming platform continues diversifying its content, Reuters reports.

The Swedish streaming giant will offer more than 650 long-form magazine articles in English to users who have access to its audiobook service, CE Report quotes AGERPRES.

Spotify is expanding its content offering to boost user engagement and compete more effectively with AI-based music startups such as Udio and Suno, as well as larger podcast rivals including YouTube and Netflix.

Spotify co-CEO Alex Norström recently said the company already holds around 20% of the audiobook market in the United States.

According to Spotify, the curated collection of narrated articles, produced by its in-house audiobook team, will each run for less than two hours.

Premium subscribers will be able to access the narrated articles as part of their monthly audiobook package, while free users can purchase individual articles for $1.99 each.

“By introducing short-form content into our offering, we are helping audiences build healthy listening habits while also increasing long-term interest in books,” said Colleen Prendergast.

Since launching its audiobook service just over two years ago, Spotify has expanded the offering to 22 markets.

Last week, Spotify also announced a deal with Universal Music Group, opening a new phase in its development that will allow subscribers to create AI-generated covers and remixes based on songs by artists signed to the label.

Spotify has also launched “Reserved” through a partnership with Live Nation Entertainment, allowing eligible premium subscribers to buy up to two concert tickets before they go on sale to the general public.

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