Audible, a subsidiary of Amazon, is a popular audiobook service known for its extensive collection of audiobooks, podcasts, and Audible Originals. As an Audible member, you can enjoy a vast array of titles and new releases across different formats through the Audible app available on iOS, Android, and Alexa devices. However, you may occasionally find that some titles are no longer included in your Audible membership. This article explains why this occurs and how you can navigate this aspect of your subscription service.
Why are some titles not available on Audible?
Audible's vast library is not constant, and some audiobooks may become unavailable over time. This typically occurs because of licensing agreements with publishers or authors. Audible, like Netflix or Kindle Unlimited, licenses content for a specified period. When the license expires, if it's not renewed, the audiobook can be removed from the service. This is why some books say "available on Audible" when, in fact, they are not.
Does Audible remove titles?
Yes, Audible does remove titles from its service, predominantly for the reasons mentioned above. This change primarily affects the Audible Plus catalog, which offers unlimited access to select audiobooks, podcasts, and Audible Originals for Audible members. However, the titles you've purchased with your Audible credits remain in your Audible library, irrespective of their availability on the Audible website or app.
Are all titles included in Audible Plus?
While the Audible Plus membership provides a wide array of free audiobooks, not all titles are included. This plan mainly features an ever-changing list of select Audible audiobooks, Audible Originals, and podcasts. If you want access to all titles, including bestsellers and new releases, you would need an Audible Premium Plus subscription.
This premium plan offers monthly credits (1 or 2, based on the plan: Gold or Platinum) that can be used to purchase any audiobook available in the Audible catalog.
Why do some Audible books say 'included'?
When you see the term 'included' next to an audiobook in your Audible app, it signifies that the title is part of the Audible Plus catalog. It means that as a subscriber to Audible Plus or Audible Premium Plus, you can access these titles for free and enjoy unlimited listening during your membership period. This feature makes Audible a compelling choice for avid audiobook listeners, similar to how Amazon Prime members enjoy certain perks on Amazon.
What can I do if I want to listen to one of these titles?
If a title is no longer available in the Plus Catalog but you'd like to listen to it, you have a few options. You can purchase the title using an Audible credit if you are a Premium Plus subscriber, buy it outright through your Amazon account, or check if it's available through Kindle Whispersync.
Whispersync allows you to switch between reading a book on a Kindle or Kindle app and listening to the corresponding audiobook on Audible without losing your place. This way, you can continue enjoying your popular books in audiobook format.
What is a membership?
An Audible membership is a monthly or annual subscription service offered by Audible.com. There are various membership plans available, including Audible Plus and Audible Premium Plus, with each offering different benefits. For instance, an Audible Plus plan provides unlimited listening to titles in the Plus catalog, while the Premium Plus membership offers one or two Audible credits per month (depending on your plan), which can be exchanged for any title, along with all the benefits of Audible Plus.
Furthermore, unused credits roll over to the next month and can be saved up for future use. Also, members get access to the Audible Daily Deal, where selected audiobooks are offered at a significant discount.
Additionally, a subscription also gives you an Audible account, allowing you to maintain a personalized Audible library, keep track of your unused credits, and manage your account details.
FAQs
Why are some books included in Audible and others not?
This is primarily due to licensing agreements. Some books are exclusive to certain regions or platforms due to the deals struck between publishers/authors and Audible.
What does the "included" title mean?
An 'included' title refers to an audiobook that is part of the Audible Plus catalog and can be listened to for free as part of your Audible membership.
Why do books disappear from Audible?
Books disappear from Audible mainly because of expired licensing agreements or when authors or publishers decide to remove their books from the service.
How can I ensure I don't lose access to my favorite titles?
Purchased books, those you've bought with your Audible credits or money, remain in your library forever. If you worry about a book in the Plus Catalog disappearing, you can use your Audible Premium Plus credits to secure permanent access to that title.
What can I do if a title is no longer included in my membership?
You can purchase the title separately or check if it's available through Kindle Whispersync.
In conclusion, while Audible's vast selection and membership plans offer many choices for audiobook lovers, it's essential to understand the terms of your Audible membership. Not all titles are available indefinitely, but with careful management of your Audible credits and a keen eye on your favorite titles, you can make the most of your Audible subscription. And remember, the Audible customer service team is always available to help with any issues or questions.
