Top 7 Best Audiobook Apps for iPhone and iPad in 2023

In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to sit down and read a book can be a challenge. That’s where audiobooks come in handy.

With the rise of smartphones, it has become easier than ever to listen to your favorite books on the go. If you’re an iPhone user looking for the best audiobook apps, you’re in luck.

We’ve compiled a list of the seven best audiobook apps for iPhone to enhance your reading experience.

7 Best Audiobook Apps for iPhone and iPad in 2023

1. Audible

Audible is one of the most popular and widely used audiobook apps available. With a vast library of over 200,000 titles across various genres, Audible offers a comprehensive selection for every book lover.

The app allows you to seamlessly switch between devices, making it easy to pick up where you left off. Additionally, Audible offers exclusive content, podcasts, and even original audio productions.

Pros:

Vast library with over 200,000 titles across various genres.
Seamless synchronization across devices, allowing you to pick up where you left off.
Exclusive content, podcasts, and original audio productions.
High-quality audio and professional narrators.

Cons:

Requires a subscription or individual purchases for most books.
Relatively higher pricing compared to other audiobook apps.
Some users may find the user interface overwhelming due to the abundance of features.

2. Libby

If you’re a fan of borrowing books from your local library, Libby is the perfect app for you. Developed by OverDrive, Libby allows you to access your library’s collection of audiobooks and eBooks.

With Libby, you can easily borrow and listen to audiobooks for free, all with a user-friendly interface and customizable reading settings.

Pros:

Free access to audiobooks through your local library.
User-friendly interface and easy borrowing process.
Customizable reading settings for a personalized listening experience.
Syncs across multiple devices.

Cons:

Limited selection of titles based on your local library’s collection.
Popular books may have long waiting lists.
Requires a library card and an active library membership.

3. Audiobooks.com

Audiobooks.com offers a vast selection of audiobooks, including bestsellers, new releases, and timeless classics. The app boasts a sleek design and a user-friendly interface, making it easy to browse and discover new titles.

It also features a unique “Sleep Timer” function that lets you listen to audiobooks before bed without worrying about playback all night.

Pros:

Large selection of audiobooks, including bestsellers and new releases.
Sleek design and intuitive user interface.
Sleep Timer function for easy listening before bed.
Bookmarking and note-taking features.

Cons:

Requires a subscription for unlimited access.
Some users have reported occasional technical issues with the app.
Limited customization options for playback speed and other settings.

4. Scribd

Scribd is a subscription-based service that provides access to an extensive library of audiobooks, eBooks, magazines, and more. With a single subscription, you can enjoy unlimited listening and reading.

Scribd’s app allows you to personalize your listening experience, create custom collections, and discover curated recommendations based on your interests.

Pros:

Unlimited access to a diverse collection of audiobooks, eBooks, and more with a single subscription.
Personalized recommendations based on your interests.
User-friendly interface and customizable reading settings.
Offline listening feature for on-the-go enjoyment.

Cons:

Limited selection of popular and mainstream titles compared to other platforms.
Some users have experienced limitations on the number of audiobooks they can access per month.
The subscription price may be higher compared to other audiobook apps.

5. Google Play Books

While primarily known for eBooks, Google Play Books also offers a wide selection of audiobooks. With a simple and intuitive interface, the app makes it easy to find and purchase audiobooks directly from your iPhone.

Google Play Books syncs across devices, allowing you to seamlessly switch between reading and listening.

Pros:

Wide selection of audiobooks available for purchase.
Simple and intuitive interface.
Syncs across multiple devices.
Seamless integration with other Google services.

Cons:

Limited customization options compared to dedicated audiobook apps.
Lack of a subscription model for unlimited access.
Some users have reported occasional glitches or performance issues.

6. Apple Books

Apple Books, the default reading app on iOS devices, also offers a considerable collection of audiobooks. The app provides a seamless integration with your iPhone, iPad, and Mac, making it easy to access and sync your audiobook library.

With features like customizable narration speed and sleep timer, Apple Books offers a pleasant listening experience.

Pros:

Seamless integration with iOS devices.
Wide selection of audiobooks available for purchase.
User-friendly interface and intuitive navigation.
Customizable playback speed and sleep timer.

Cons:

Limited selection compared to some dedicated audiobook platforms.
Requires individual purchases for most books.
Some users have reported issues with syncing and downloading audiobooks.

7. LibriVox

If you’re looking for free audiobooks, LibriVox is an excellent choice. The app offers a vast collection of audiobooks in the public domain, read by volunteers from around the world.

While the quality of recordings may vary, LibriVox provides a unique opportunity to discover classic literature and lesser-known titles without any cost.

Pros:

Offers a vast collection of free audiobooks in the public domain.
Opportunity to discover classic literature and lesser-known titles.
Available in multiple languages.
Community-driven project with volunteer narrators.

Cons:

Quality of recordings may vary due to volunteer narrators.
Limited selection compared to commercial audiobook platforms.
No advanced features or customization options available.

FAQs on Best Audiobook Apps for iPhone

What is an audiobook app?

An audiobook app is a mobile application that allows you to listen to audio versions of books on your iPhone. These apps provide a convenient way to access and enjoy a wide range of books, including bestsellers, classics, and more.

How do audiobook apps work?

Audiobook apps typically require you to create an account and sign in. Once you’re logged in, you can browse their library, search for specific titles or authors, and select the audiobook you want to listen to. Many apps offer features like bookmarking, note-taking, and customized settings for playback speed and sleep timers.

Are these audiobook apps free?

While some audiobook apps offer free access to certain titles or have a limited free trial period, many of them require a subscription or individual purchases to access their full library of audiobooks. However, there are also apps like Libby and LibriVox that provide free access to audiobooks through library borrowing or public domain content.

Can I listen to audiobooks offline?

Yes, most audiobook apps allow you to download audiobooks for offline listening. This is particularly useful when you’re traveling or in areas with limited or no internet connectivity. Simply download the audiobook to your device when you have an internet connection, and you can enjoy it later without needing an internet connection.

Can I listen to audiobooks on multiple devices?

Yes, many audiobook apps offer synchronization across multiple devices. This means you can start listening to an audiobook on your iPhone and then continue from where you left off on your iPad or other compatible devices. This feature ensures a seamless and uninterrupted listening experience.

Can I adjust the narration speed?

Yes, most audiobook apps allow you to customize the playback speed to suit your preferences. You can speed up the narration if you want to listen to the book at a faster pace, or slow it down if you prefer a more leisurely listening experience. This feature gives you control over the pace of the narration.

Can I return or exchange audiobooks?

The return or exchange policies vary among different audiobook apps. Apps like Audible usually offer a return policy within a certain timeframe if you’re not satisfied with a purchased audiobook. However, it’s important to review the specific terms and conditions of each app to understand their return or exchange policies.

Can I listen to audiobooks while using other apps on my iPhone?

Yes, you can typically listen to audiobooks while using other apps on your iPhone. Most audiobook apps allow background playback, so you can switch to other apps or perform different tasks on your device while continuing to listen to your audiobook.

Conclusion on Best Audiobook Apps for iPhone

These seven audiobook apps for iPhone offer a range of options to suit different preferences and budgets.

Whether you prefer bestsellers, library borrowing, subscription services, or free public domain titles, there is an app for you.

With their user-friendly interfaces and extensive libraries, these apps provide a convenient and enjoyable way to listen to your favorite books whenever and wherever you want.

Happy listening!

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