Spotify has officially launched a new feature allowing users in the United States and the United Kingdom to purchase physical books directly through the app.
The rollout, which began this week, integrates the streaming platform with Bookshop.org, an online marketplace that supports independent bookstores. According to techcrunch.com, users will see a button labeled “Get a new copy for your bookshelf” on audiobook pages.
Clicking the button redirects listeners to the Bookshop.org website. The partner platform handles all aspects of the transaction, including inventory management, pricing, and shipping.
Currently, the feature is available exclusively to Android users. Spotify plans to bring the functionality to iOS users next week.
Expanding the audio experience
The move follows a February announcement where Spotify first signaled its intent to enter the physical book market. This expansion is part of a broader strategy to transform the app into a comprehensive hub for book lovers and to drive company profitability.
In addition to the new shopping feature, Spotify is expanding its “Page Match” tool. The feature, which allows users to scan a physical or e-book page with a smartphone camera to find the corresponding audiobook section, now supports over 30 additional languages, including French, German, and Swedish.
Spotify reports that the Page Match tool is driving significant engagement. The company noted that users who utilize the feature stream an average of 55% more audiobook hours each week than those who do not.
