Best Audiobook Apps in 2022

Audiobook apps open up a whole new world on your iPad Pro 12.9. You now have access to the world's most extensive digital library, filled with the content of your dreams. Whether you want to listen to audio stories, podcasts, news articles, or books, an audiobook app is a way to go. Not only can you catch up with all the latest books by your favorite author, but you can discover new genres and writers. An audiobook app is similar to having a virtual library card or unlimited access to your go-to bookshop.

In addition, there is something innately soothing about having someone read to you. Listening to a gentle, melodic voice speaking the words of a book into life is a great way to take a break or switch off. Also, gone are the days when you have to make time to read the growing pile of newly bought books. Immerse yourself in the latest thriller or soak up the tips in a self-help book while out on a walk or doing chores. Audiobook apps give you the freedom to multitask while keeping you occupied. We’ve got the top audiobook apps for your iPad Pro 12.9. And we also included a guide on what to look out for before downloading one. 

1. Apple Books

This app allows you to tap into a vast book room filled with books and audiobooks. It is easy to track where you left off reading or listening and pick it up again in the Reading Now section. Tag your reading lists in the saved section to pick and listen to later. Apple Books is free, but you quickly purchase any title or audiobook within the app. In addition, Apple Books syncs across your devices so you can effortlessly switch between your iPad or iPhone. 

2. Scribd

Scribd is similar to a library. You can listen to as many audiobooks as your heart desires for a monthly fee. This is one of the world's top-rated reading apps, giving you access to millions of documents, research papers, sheet music, podcasts, magazine articles, audiobooks, etc. You are spoilt for choice with Scribd, which includes bestsellers and trending audiobooks in every genre. The app does have a drawback, though. Some titles temporarily disappear from the app due to publisher agreements. However, the app will notify you with an email when the audiobook reappears for listening. 

3. Audible

Audible is powered by Amazon and the internet powerhouse's take on online libraries. In fact, Audible is the number one rated audiobook app with more than four million reviews and an average of 4.9 stars. Aside from the endless range of audiobooks from all genres. Can you imagine listening to your favorite books performed by international celebrities, actors, poets, and authors? Follow Jane Bennet’s complicated courtships in Pride and Prejudice as narrated by Rosamund Pike, who took on that character in the 2005 film. Or let American author Michael Pollan guide you in the rich world of coffee in his book, Caffeine. 

4. Libby

The concept behind Libby is unique as it brings together all the content available in public libraries into one umbrella app. All you need is a library card. The app is free without any extra in-app purchases. Borrow the latest bestseller audiobook or catch up with the classics. Sync your last read page with iPad 12.9 and iPhone. Or use tags to build your must-read list. Visit the libraries around the world in the comfort of your home.

5. Google Play Books

Google Play Books is the perfect app for those who love using Google and don’t want to give it up. The app is free and gives you the advantage of buying just the titles you love. Admittedly, its audiobook selection is not as extensive as Audible or Scribd. However, you can find your favorites and listen to them on the go or download them later. 

What to Look For in an Audiobook App

1. Reading Speed Control

Choosing the speed of narration is an essential feature in an audiobook app. Sometimes parts of a book can have a slower pace or feel repetitive. Or you become so mesmerized that you can’t wait to hear what is next. Increasing the speed by 1.5 or 2 can make a huge difference. 

2. Stability

Although obvious, the lack of stability is sometimes an issue with certain audiobooks apps. Nothing is more frustrating than listening to an audiobook in stops and starts. Ensure you have the most recent app version and update your iPad Pro 12.9 to the latest iOS version.

4. Sleep Timer

Few things beat listening to an audiobook app before falling sleeping. Putting on the sleep timer for 30 minutes or an hour makes it easier for you to track the last thing you listened to before drifting to sleep. It's like having a person read your favorite book while cozy in bed.

5. Streaming and Offline Playback Options

Find an app that gives you a choice between streaming your audiobooks or downloading them for offline playback. Although the iPad Pro 12.9 has extensive memory storage, downloading audiobooks can take precious space. So choose an audiobook app that gives you control over both options.