Spotify to Launch Audio Versions of Magazine Articles: Why the Company Needs It

Spotify launched a new format of narrated articles called Articles

Spotify has launched a new format of audio content on a trial basis — narrated versions of large magazine articles called Articles. This initiative aims to simplify the transition for users from podcasts to literary works by offering shorter analytical audio materials.

The launch of audio articles is part of the extensive development of Spotify’s ecosystem, which already includes music, podcasts, and books. According to the company, the number of hours spent listening to books is growing by 60% annually, and Spotify has integrated thematic features into its interface, such as Page Match, Recaps, and Follow Along. Spotify Audiobooks’ Head of Licensing, Collin Prendergast, emphasized that these magazine formats could help audiences get used to listening to text materials and ultimately become interested in audiobooks.

The new format already includes articles from Rolling Stone, Atlantic, Vogue, Variety, Billboard, Vibe, GQ, WIRED, Vanity Fair, and Pitchfork. The narration is done by Spotify Audiobooks’ internal team, and the audio articles last less than two hours. This format is available in markets where audiobooks are already present.

The cost of narrated articles depends on the type of subscription: for Premium users, articles are included in the monthly audiobook listening limit at no extra charge, while free version users can purchase individual articles for $1.99 each.

Rolling Stone’s CEO, Julian Holguin, expressed delight in collaborating with Spotify, emphasizing that it makes Rolling Stone journalism more accessible to a wider audience.

It should be noted that earlier Spotify launched a new artist verification system, providing a “Verified by Spotify” badge that confirms the authenticity of an artist’s profile. Additionally, Spotify has lowered the monetization threshold for video podcasts, which could impact content creators’ working conditions.