Spotify Debuts AI-Powered Audiobook Recaps on iOS to Help Listeners Finish Long Stories

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Spotify is testing a new feature called “Audiobook Recap” on iOS. This tool allows users to quickly jump back to the exact point in the story where it was last left, even if it was a long time ago. It is particularly useful for listeners returning to an audiobook after an extended break.

Availability and Impact on Audiobook Engagement

The new add-on, Recaps, is currently available only in the Beta version for testing. This feature is strategically significant as it directly addresses a major concern of audiobook listeners: losing the plot thread after an extended listening break. Recaps intend to significantly increase audiobook completion rates and user engagement by reducing the cognitive load required to re-engage.

How Spotify's AI-Powered Recaps Work

According to the blog published by Spotify, Recaps is quite similar to the “Previously on” feature. Here’s how this new feature works:

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  • Tap the Recaps button available at the top of the audiobook page to listen to the summary of the previously read portion of the book.
  • The first Recaps option becomes visible only when the user completes listening to at least 15 to 20 minutes of the audiobook.
  • As the listener proceeds further in the book, the summary of the next 15-20 minutes is made available.
  • The Recaps feature helps users catch up with the story with the help of AI while ensuring that the work of authors and narrators is not affected.
  • The Recaps feature does not imitate narration or replace the audiobook in any way.
     

Currently, this feature is available as a beta version for selected iOS users. This allows Spotify to collect feedback and improve AI, making the feature available for a larger audience. The tool will help authors and publishers by increasing the engagement rate of audiences. It also promises stronger sales and higher listener retention.