eaudiobooks
Eaudiobooks are digital audio recordings of books that are read aloud and delivered electronically for download or streaming to devices such as smartphones, tablets, computers, or smart speakers. They enable listening to literature and non-fiction in place of or alongside printed text.
The format emerged with the rise of digital audio players and online storefronts. Audible, founded in 1997,
Common file formats include MP3, AAC, and M4B. M4B files are an audiobook container that supports bookmarking
Major platforms include Audible, Google Play Books, Apple Books, and Kobo. Libraries distribute through OverDrive and
Production involves rights negotiations, casting a narrator, studio recording, editing, mastering, and creating metadata and chapter
Eaudiobooks enhance accessibility for readers who are visually impaired or prefer listening, and they offer features
Market growth continues, but platform fragmentation, pricing, licensing, and DRM considerations shape user experience and access