Google Play Offering AI Narration for Audiobooks

As audiobook usage continues to grow at a furious pace, companies are trying to capitalize on what is now far more than a trend.

Audible is the leader in North America, but companies like Storytel are introducing audio subscription services to Europe, Asia, and parts of South America, and it may not be long till North American publishers jump on board.

Google is adding its own innovation to the game. Google Play Books now offers auto narration for ebooks that don’t have audio services. Expect this service to be ready to go early this year (it’s already out in beta).

My [safe] prediction is that audio will be to books what streaming is to music and film. It’s a differentiated enough experience from actually reading a physical book to push demand.

What dod you think? Do you listen to audiobooks? Do you prefer them to physical books?