Spotify on Wednesday launched a new feature, available in the United States (US) and the United Kingdom (UK), enabling users to buy physical books through the app.
For this feature, the company has colloborated with Bookshop.org, which is an online marketplace dedicated to supporting local, independent bookstores. On audiobook pages within Spotify app, users will now see a button labeled 'Get a copy for your bookshelf'.
"Clicking this button directs them to Bookshop’s website, which manages pricing, inventory, and shipping," said Spotify adding that currently, the ability to purchase physical books is available exclusively on Android devices, with iOS users set to gain access next week.
With the launch of this new feature, Spotify stands its position as a competitor to major booksellers, as it aims to transform into a one-stop shop for book lovers. This new offering is also part of Spotify’s larger strategy focused on profitability.
In addition to the physical book sales, Spotify launched several other updates, initially announced back in February. This includes the expansion of its “Page Match” feature, which now supports more than 30 additional languages, including French, German, and Swedish.
Page Match allows users to scan a page from a physical or e-book using their smartphone camera. The tool analyzes the content and directs users to the corresponding section in the audiobook.