Spotify has simplified the process of keeping up with lengthy reads without the need to read them yourself.
Long-form journalism is making its way to Spotify, perfectly timed for your commute.
It appears that Spotify aims to become a comprehensive solution for all our audio requirements. The music streaming platform has gradually incorporated audiobooks and podcasts and is now introducing magazine articles.
In an announcement on its website, Spotify stated that over 650 long-form magazine articles are now available for listening. This curated selection is produced by Spotify’s in-house audiobooks team and features contributions from major publishing names like Rolling Stone, The Atlantic, Vogue, Variety, Billboard, GQ, WIRED, Vanity Fair, and Pitchfork.
Each narrated article lasts under two hours and can be included in Premium users' existing monthly audiobook quotas. Free users have the option to buy individual articles for $1.99 each.
What’s driving Spotify to do this?
The music streaming industry is fiercely competitive, and Spotify is already a leader. The company understands that there are limits to the unique features it can provide to differentiate itself from other music streaming services, since the content on offer is available on multiple platforms. There is no exclusive content that binds users to Spotify, making it easy for them to switch.
To retain its audience, Spotify has consistently expanded its library of podcasts and audiobooks while developing a catalog of exclusive content. The introduction of articles is a natural progression.
Spotify believes that shorter content can lead listeners to longer audio formats like books. This approach may serve as a gateway, enticing more people to join its platform. For instance, after enjoying a compelling feature from Rolling Stone, you might find yourself cancelling your other music and audiobook subscriptions to join Spotify.
What types of articles can you anticipate?
The collection is centered on subjects that Spotify knows resonate with its users, focusing on music, culture, and entertainment. This aligns well with the publishing partners involved.
Furthermore, Spotify's discovery and personalization features will help surface articles that align with your listening preferences, ensuring you aren't aimlessly searching through the library.
This addition to the platform is a clever move. As audio becomes increasingly the preferred medium for content consumption, having long-form journalism easily accessible alongside your playlists and podcasts is quite logical.
Other articles
Spotify has simplified the process of keeping up with lengthy reads without the need to read them yourself.
Spotify is launching over 650 narrated magazine articles from publications such as Rolling Stone, Vogue, WIRED, and others. Premium subscribers can begin listening to these articles using their audiobook allowance starting today.
