Audiobooks Market Size - Industry Analysis Report, Regional Outlook, Application Development Potential, Price Trends, Competitive Market Share & Forecast, 2025 – 2034

Audiobooks Market Size

The global audiobooks market size garnered a healthy valuation in 2024 and is poised to grow at a decent CAGR from 2025 to 2034, driven by the increasing adoption of smartphones and a growing interest in digital content. According to a recent study by the GSMA in 2023, approximately 54% of the world's population, equating to around 4.3 billion individuals, are smartphone owners.  This surge in market demand is attributed to the growing popularity of audiobooks as an alternative to traditional print books, along with advances in technology that make it easier for consumers to access and enjoy audiobooks anytime, anywhere. According to market research, over 80% of audiobook consumers access audiobooks via their smartphones, which has allowed for greater accessibility and ease of use. The increasing popularity of audiobooks as a form of entertainment and self-improvement also contributes to market expansion.
 

With busy lifestyles becoming the norm, many consumers are opting for audiobooks to fit into their on-the-go routines, whether they’re commuting, exercising, or performing daily tasks. As such, audiobooks are no longer just a niche market but have become an integral part of the global reading experience. This market growth is fueled by the growing interest in audiobooks from various age groups and an increasing number of platforms offering audiobooks for subscription or purchase. The adoption of audiobooks is also driven by advancements in smartphone technology. With smartphones becoming the primary device for consuming audiobooks, they offer a portable and convenient medium to enjoy books.
 

Additionally, audiobooks cater to a broad range of listeners, from younger generations to older adults, which significantly expands their appeal. However, the issues related to audiobook pricing and the availability of content hampers the market growth. While subscription services like Audible have become dominant players in the market, some consumers still feel that audiobook prices can be high compared to physical books or e-books.
 

Audiobooks Market Trends

The increasing integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning in audiobook production has been a defining trend in the industry. AI-driven narrators are now capable of creating high-quality, lifelike voiceovers, which reduces production time and costs for publishers. In addition, AI algorithms help personalize audiobook recommendations for users, enhancing user experience and driving consumer engagement.
 

Moreover, there has been a marked increase in audiobooks catering to specific niches and interests. Genres such as self-help, education, wellness, and even professional development have seen significant growth in audiobook formats. This trend is further augmented by the rise of podcasts and the growing preference for spoken-word content over traditional print or text-based content. Audiobook subscription models have contributed to their widespread appeal, with major services offering affordable, all-access subscriptions to a vast library of titles. This business model has not only made audiobooks more affordable for consumers but has also fostered increased discovery of new content.
 

Audiobooks Market Analysis

Based on device, the Smartphone segment is expected to generate notable revenues during 2025-2034. Audiobook apps, such as Audible, Google Play Books, and Apple Books, have been developed to be fully optimized for mobile devices, enabling listeners to easily purchase, download, and stream audiobooks directly to their smartphones. Additionally, smartphone devices are available in a wide range of price points, making them accessible to a broad consumer base. The popularity of smartphones as the preferred device for audiobook consumption is fueled by the availability of advanced features such as Bluetooth connectivity, which allows users to listen to audiobooks through wireless earphones or speakers. The portability of smartphones enables users to enjoy audiobooks during their daily commute, while exercising, or even while performing household chores. Moreover, the integration of voice assistants like Siri, Google Assistant, and Alexa makes it even easier for users to control audiobook playback through simple voice commands, further enhancing the convenience factor. As smartphones continue to evolve and become even more powerful, the demand for audiobooks on these devices is expected to continue growing.
 

While audiobooks have traditionally been associated with young adults and children, the primary audience for audiobooks is now adults, particularly those aged 25-50. The adults segment is poised to grow substantially through 2034. This demographic is typically busy with work, family, and social commitments and often seeks out audiobooks to multitask and continue consuming content while on the go. Many adults are turning to audiobooks to help with professional development, enhance their personal growth, or simply relax with a good story. In fact, research shows that nearly 60% of audiobook consumers are adults aged 30 and above.
 

Additionally, many adults are drawn to genres such as self-help, business, personal finance, and wellness, making audiobooks an ideal medium for these subjects. Audiobooks also appeal to consumers who have visual impairments or reading disabilities, providing an inclusive alternative to traditional print. Furthermore, audiobooks are gaining popularity among older generations, such as baby boomers and seniors, who appreciate the convenience of audiobooks over print. With the rise of subscription services and platforms, adults now have access to a vast library of content, making it easier than ever to find titles that suit their interests and preferences.
 

North America audiobooks market is expected to generate substantial growth during 2025-2034. The region’s strong demand for audiobooks is driven by the high penetration of smartphones and other mobile devices, as well as the widespread adoption of audiobook subscription services like Audible. The North American market is also bolstered by the growing number of audiobook publishers and producers. The region’s leading audiobook platforms, such as Audible, are home to large catalogs of titles in a variety of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, self-help, business, and educational content. As a result, North American consumers have access to a diverse range of audiobooks and enjoy the convenience of subscription-based models that allow them to access a vast library of content for a flat monthly fee. In addition to growing demand among adult listeners, North America also sees increasing audiobook consumption among younger generations, including millennials and Gen Z, who are more likely to use audiobooks for entertainment, education, and personal growth. As audiobook technology continues to evolve.
 

Audiobooks Market Share

The competitive landscape of the market is dominated by a few key players that have established themselves as major forces in audiobook distribution and production. Major audiobooks industry players include:

Rakuten Group, Inc.

• Audible, Inc.

• W. F. Howes Ltd.

• Amazon.com, Inc.

• Barnes & Noble Booksellers, Inc.

• Playster (Softonic International S.A.)

• Apple Inc.

• Storytel AB

• Downpour

• Google LLC
 

Other important players in the audiobooks market include Bookbeat, Scribd, and Audiobooks.com, each of which offers a variety of subscription and pay-per-book options to cater to diverse consumer needs. Additionally, independent audiobook publishers and small platforms are emerging, offering exclusive and niche content that helps diversify the market.
 

The increasing number of audiobook platforms, combined with the rise of subscription models and innovative production technologies, suggests that the competitive landscape will continue to evolve. Companies are focusing on acquiring exclusive content, integrating AI-based features, and enhancing the overall user experience to capture a larger share of the growing market.
 

Audiobooks Industry News

In March 2025, Spotify Audiobooks launched a new website aimed at encouraging independent authors to write short-form stories for audiobook conception and publishing consideration. Spotify Audiobooks expressed their excitement about opening submissions for short-form content, inviting independent authors who shared their passion for audiobooks.
 

In March 2025, The eVivlio app, launched by the Greek Education Ministry in collaboration with Bookvoice, provided free access to audiobooks by Greek and international authors, narrated by famous actors. It offered book lovers in Greece hundreds of audiobooks at no cost.