Ads Are Coming in Audible

     Audible is causing some big-time controversy by launching a new system to play audio advertisements within audiobooks, Audible Originals, and Podcasts. The advertisements will not be shown to subscribers who have access to one credit per month, which can be used to purchase audiobooks. However, non-paying members will have "ad-supported access to a limited set" of titles, with a maximum of eight ads playing within 24 hours. Audible did confirm that they are conducting the test in several countries but has not specified which ones.

     Although the providers were informed of the change and allowed to opt out of ads, the introduction of advertisements within audiobooks or podcasts will set a dangerous precedent, if they get their way, we'll be getting ads everywhere. If Audible does not receive backlash from the media and the public, then you can bet for sure that other companies to follow suit. For instance, Spotify, which owns Findaway, powers its audiobook catalog and could play audio ads within them to encourage paid adoption.

     Audible has stated that it is testing the new system to gain knowledge about the evolving needs of its customers and partners. Which of course is confusing English for what is really bullshit. The company's help page about the test reads, "Audible is dedicated to continuously optimizing how we deliver audio programming to listeners everywhere." The test is currently limited to non-paying members, and Audible has not specified which countries are part of the trial. However, the United States is the largest market where Audible operates.

     Everyone needs to really complain about this or we'll all be doomed to ads popping up everywhere interrupting our entertainment.

     If people don't take issue with this, every other entertainment platform will do the same.