Audible's Monopolistic Practices

The audiobook "The Software Engineer's Guidebook" by Gergely Orosz is available on various platforms but not on Audible, the largest audiobook service. Orosz cites Audible's monopolistic practices and high take rates as reasons for this decision. He submitted the audiobook to Audible six days ago, but the approval process can take up to 25 days, leading to a delay in its availability. Orosz emphasizes that while Audible is popular among listeners, its practices are detrimental to authors and publishers, with take rates as high as 75% for non-exclusive titles. He encourages readers to purchase the audiobook from other platforms to support fairer compensation for authors. Orosz also notes that Spotify is emerging as a competitor to Audible, offering better royalty rates and a unique model that could challenge Audible's dominance. He reflects on the broader implications of Audible's market position and the need for competition to improve conditions for audiobook creators.

- "The Software Engineer's Guidebook" audiobook is not available on Audible due to its monopolistic practices.

- Audible's approval process for new titles can take up to 25 days, delaying availability.

- The high take rates on Audible (60-75%) negatively impact authors' earnings.

- Orosz encourages purchasing audiobooks from other platforms to support fair compensation.

- Spotify is emerging as a competitor to Audible, potentially improving conditions for authors.