Quote:
Originally Posted by Aleron Ives
Even if this doesn't affect paying members now, you can bet that Audible will raise prices in the future if you want to keep the advertising away.
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Speculation. We don't know what they have in mind for an ad-supported model. Will it include credits to 'purchase' content, for example.
There are no direct comparisons available, it will not be the same as video streaming services, which have intense competition and are barely making money and are raising ad-free subscription pricing. Audible practically has a monopoly and very little competition except for library borrowing.
In fact I am paying less for the current year than in the past, and it includes Audible Plus content.
I probably won't renew this year, but only because I have a huge backlog of content and have cherry picked the Audible Plus content and won't miss it. It's not so much about saving money -- it's as good a value as ever -- it is more about reducing distractions.
I used to have lengthy commutes to consume audio content, but have retired. I have more time overall, but prefer to listen to music rather than podcasts or audiobooks. When I've taken breaks before, they have always eventually come along with a special rate to 'return'. Works for me!
I still don't have a good picture of the prospective customers for an ad-supported model. It seems unlikely to include the entire Audible catalog (new books etc). I could see them offering Audible Plus catalog plus podcasts for free, with ads. And maybe they throw in some discounts for purchasing other content.
I cannot even see what plans are available. When I go to the web page in private window the only thing on offer is $14.95/mo. I've always done annual plans, and assume when in trial that's on offer as well.