- Google’s (GOOG, GOOGL) online store now sells audiobooks in a bid to take on Amazon.
- Listening to audiobooks is a popular use for smart speakers like the Google Home and Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN) Alexa.
- Amazon owns leading audiobook company Audible, which isn’t offered on the Google Home.
- Google Play Books product management head Greg Hartrell notes that users can “buy a single audiobook at an affordable price, with no commitments.”
- Audible does allow single audiobook purchases but is more known for its $14.95 monthly subscription service, which comes with one free download and a 30% discount on purchases.
- Audiobooks purchased through Google can be accessed on the web through Google Play Books, in the apps for Android or iOS devices, and in Assistant-enabled smart speakers.
- Previously: Facebook (NASDAQ:FB), Google promise AI spending in Paris (Jan. 22)
- Now read: Anti-Amazon: A Favorite Investment Theme For 2018
Original article