The global audiobooks market size is estimated to reach USD 35.47 billion by 2030, registering to grow at a CAGR of 26.2% from 2025 to 2030 according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The convergence of artificial intelligence (AI) and natural language processing (NLP) has revolutionized the audiobook market, enabling personalized recommendations, dynamic narration, and enhanced accessibility features.
The surge in demand for audiobook services from public libraries, retail bookstores, and online subscriptions is a significant driver for market expansion. Companies are constantly leveraging subscription-based audiobook services to cater to the increasing demand for convenient and comprehensive digital reading experiences. For instance, in February 2024, Rakuten Kobo unveiled its Kobo Plus subscription service to Taiwan and Hong Kong after launching it in the United States and Europe. The service includes features such as personalized recommendations and the ability to adjust narration speed, making the audiobook experience more engaging and user-friendly.
One of the key trends driving market growth is the increasing demand for audiobooks among different segments, including adults and kids. The convenience and accessibility offered by audiobooks make them a popular choice for consumers looking to enjoy literature on the go or while engaging in other activities. In addition, the availability of various types of audiobook formats such as MP3, Windows Media Audio, Advancaterdio Coding, and solid-state preloaded digital devices caters to diverse consumer preferences, further fueling market growth.
Moreover, technological advancements have enhanced the performance of audiobook services, making them more widely used across various end-user groups. Factors such as consumer behavior analysis and market dynamics, such as the growing popularity of online subscriptions and retail bookstores, are propelling the market expansion.
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The fiction segment dominated the market with a market share of over 64% in 2024, driven by the increasing demand for immersive storytelling and entertainment.
The smartphone segment registered the largest revenue share in 2024, owing to the widespread use of mobile devices and the increasing reliance on smartphones for entertainment and education.
The one-time download segment in the market registered the highest share in 2024, driven by consumers who prefer to purchase and own individual titles rather than subscriptions.
The adults segment registered the largest revenue share in 2024, driven by the wide variety of genres and titles designed for adult audiences.
Grand View Research has segmented the global audiobooks market based on genre, preferred device, distribution channel, target audience, and region:
Audiobooks Genre Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
Fiction
Non-Fiction
Audiobooks Preferred Device Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
Smartphones
Laptops & Tablets
Personal Digital Assistants
Others
Audiobooks Distribution Channel Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
One-time download
Subscription-Based
Audiobooks Target Audience Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
Kids
Adults
Audiobooks Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
North America
U.S.
Canada
Europe
UK
Germany
France
Italy
Spain
Russia
Nordic Countries
Asia Pacific
China
Australia
Japan
India
South Korea
Latin America
Brazil
Mexico
Argentina
Chile
Middle East & Africa
South Africa
Saudi Arabia
UAE
Egypt
Turkey
List of Key Players in Audiobooks Market
Amazon.com, Inc.
Apple Inc.
Audible, Inc
Barnes & Noble Booksellers, Inc.
Downpour.com
Google LLC
PLAYSTER (SOFTONIC INTERNATIONAL S.A.)
Rakuten Group, Inc.
Storytel AB
VoiceVerse
Spotify AB
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