Spotify launches the ability to purchase physical books in the US and UK

In February, Spotify made an exciting (and a bit unusual) move when it entered the world of physical book sales. As of this week, the new feature is officially live in the U.S. and the U.K., allowing users to purchase physical books through the Spotify app. 

This collaboration is with Bookshop.org, an online marketplace dedicated to supporting local, independent bookstores. On audiobook pages within the app, users will now see a button labeled “Get a copy for your bookshelf.” Clicking this button directs them to Bookshop’s website, which manages pricing, inventory, and shipping. 

Currently, the ability to purchase physical books is available exclusively on Android devices, with iOS users set to gain access next week.

Today’s announcement solidifies Spotify’s position as a competitor to major booksellers, as it aims to transform into a one-stop shop for book lovers. This new offering is also part of Spotify’s larger strategy focused on profitability. To further this goal, the company has been increasing subscription prices in the U.S. and Europe. It recently touted reaching 751 million monthly active listeners. 

In addition to the physical book sales, Spotify launched several other updates, initially announced back in February. This includes the expansion of its “Page Match” feature, which now supports more than 30 additional languages, including French, German, and Swedish. Page Match allows users to scan a page from a physical book or e-book using their smartphone camera. The tool analyzes the content and directs users to the corresponding section in the audiobook.

Since the feature’s launch for English language books in February, Spotify has reported that users who use Page Match stream an average of 55% more audiobook hours each week compared to other listeners. Additionally, 62% of Page Matched audiobook titles on Spotify are books that users had never streamed before.

Additional updates include the official rollout of “Audiobook Recaps” on Android devices. This feature provides short audio summaries tailored to the user’s most recent point in the story, making it easier to jump back into listening. 

The company also announced that “Audiobook Charts,” similar to Spotify’s Music and Podcast Charts, is now available in Germany, following its previous rollout in the U.S. and U.K. These charts help users discover their next favorite book by showcasing what’s popular and trending on Spotify.