Apple Now Lets U.S. iPhone Users Buy Spotify Audiobooks In-App
Wondering if you can buy audiobooks directly from Spotify on your iPhone? As of May 2025, the answer is yes. In a major update that enhances user convenience and accessibility, Apple has approved a new Spotify update that allows U.S. iOS users to purchase audiobooks directly within the app. No more jumping to the web—now you can view pricing, purchase titles, and even buy additional listening hours without ever leaving Spotify. This update is a game-changer for anyone who enjoys audiobooks and wants a smoother, faster checkout experience on their mobile device.
For years, Spotify fans were frustrated by the roundabout process of buying audiobooks due to Apple's in-app purchase restrictions. This changed following a recent U.S. court ruling that forced Apple to loosen its grip on in-app payment policies. Spotify, seizing this opportunity, reintroduced in-app audiobook purchases, marking a pivotal shift in audiobook accessibility for iPhone users.
Spotify’s announcement highlights the impact: “This change lowers the barriers for more users to embrace their first — or tenth — audiobook,” they shared. It also opens new doors for authors and publishers, making it easier for them to monetize content and reach wider audiences through a platform with over 500 million users.
Previously, users could only preview audiobooks in the app, then had to visit the Spotify web store to complete the purchase. The same applied to buying extra listening hours—known as audiobook top-ups—which are now also available directly within the app. Users get 15 hours with an audiobook purchase, and additional time costs $13 for 10 more hours. This streamlined process is not only more user-friendly but also encourages increased audiobook consumption, driving potential revenue growth for digital publishers and Spotify alike.
This update follows another recent milestone: Spotify now allows iPhone users to buy subscriptions via external payment links, a move that aligns with broader antitrust reforms and enhances user freedom in choosing how and where to pay.
Whether you're an audiobook enthusiast, a digital publisher, or just someone who values convenience, this change benefits everyone. It also points to a growing trend where tech giants like Apple are being pushed toward more consumer-friendly digital commerce policies.
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