Spotify is rolling out a new feature designed to address a common problem for audiobook listeners: forgetting where they left off. The tool, called Audiobook Recaps, provides AI-generated summaries of previously listened-to chapters, helping users re-engage with stories without needing to rewind or re-listen.
The Problem and the Solution
Many audiobook listeners struggle with maintaining continuity, especially with lengthy or complex narratives. Spotify’s Recaps offer a quick refresher, summarizing key plot points and characters to bring listeners back up to speed. This addresses a common pain point, particularly for those who listen intermittently or juggle multiple books at once.
How It Works
The feature activates after a listener has engaged with an audiobook for approximately 15-20 minutes. A Recap button appears, providing a spoiler-free summary of what has already transpired. The summaries are dynamically updated as the listener progresses through the book. Spotify emphasizes that the AI is trained to avoid replicating narration or generating new content, preserving the integrity of the original work.
Protecting Authors and Narrators
A key concern with AI-generated content is the potential for copyright infringement or unauthorized use of creative works. Spotify has addressed this by explicitly stating that the AI does not train on audiobook content and does not imitate narrators’ voices. The summaries are delivered in a neutral voice distinct from the original performance. Spotify collaborated with publishing partners to ensure that Recaps respect creative contributions, honoring requests to avoid storing book data within the AI model.
Limited Availability
Currently, Audiobook Recaps are available only within Spotify’s iOS apps for mobile and desktop, with a selection of English-language books. The feature is restricted to Spotify Premium subscribers in specific countries, including the U.S., Canada, UK, Australia, and several European nations.
Expanding Audiobook Library and Revenue
Spotify launched audiobooks in 2022 after acquiring Findaway, and has since tripled its library to over 500,000 English-language titles. The platform has inked deals with major publishers such as Penguin Random House and HarperCollins, and reports that half of its Premium users have listened to at least one audiobook. Spotify has paid “hundreds of millions of dollars” annually to publishers, though payout terms vary by contract.
Growth and New Features
Spotify’s subscriber base grew 12 percent in the third quarter of 2025, reaching 281 million. The company has also been adding other features, including listening stats, managed accounts for children, search for free accounts, custom playlist transitions, and lossless audio.
In essence, Spotify’s Audiobook Recaps are a practical solution to a common listener challenge, designed to enhance engagement and retention within its growing audiobook ecosystem. The company’s emphasis on protecting authors and narrators underscores a commitment to ethical AI implementation within the publishing industry.
