Audiobook Distribution: Where Should You Sell Your Audiobook?

Library of old books in the background, with a signpost that reads "Libraries, Findaway Voices, Apple Books, Audible (ACX), Google Play" all pointing in different directions

Once you’ve worked with a professional audiobook company to create your audiobook, it’s time to think about where to sell your audiobook and how you’re going to get your audiobook in front of listeners. The world of audiobook distribution offers several platforms, each with its own strengths and audience. For self-published authors, selecting the right distribution channels can help amplify your story’s reach and ensure that your audiobook is available to the people who will appreciate it most.

At Indie Audiobook Productions, we aim to simplify the audiobook production process from start to finish. Whether you’re new to audiobook creation or ready to expand your reach, our expert guidance can help you make the right choices every step of the way.

Let’s look at the key distribution options available for your audiobook.

1. Audible and ACX (Audiobook Creation Exchange)

Audible is one of the largest audiobook platforms, owned by Amazon, and remains the most popular choice for both listeners and creators. Through Audible, your audiobook can be made available not just on Audible itself, but also across Amazon and Apple Books.

What is ACX? ACX is the platform through which authors can distribute their audiobooks to Audible. It connects authors with narrators, allowing you to produce and distribute your audiobook all in one place.

The Benefits: Audible offers exposure to millions of potential listeners, and the platform is trusted by audiobook fans worldwide. If you’re looking for massive reach, this is a great option.

Considerations: Audible offers exclusive and non-exclusive distribution agreements. If you go with the exclusive option, your audiobook will be available only on Audible, Amazon, and Apple Books. However, if you choose non-exclusive distribution, you are permitted to distribute your audiobook elsewhere, but you’ll receive a lower royalty rate.

Tip: If you want to reach a global audience and benefit from Audible’s reputation, ACX is an excellent platform. It’s an accessible, and many times an affordable way to get your audiobook into listeners’ hands, but it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of exclusive vs. non-exclusive distribution.

2. Apple Books (Previously iTunes)

While Audible is often the go-to for audiobook listeners, Apple Books offers a huge opportunity for authors looking to expand their audience. With millions of Apple device users, Apple Books is a popular platform for audiobooks.

What is Apple Books Audiobook Distribution? Apple Books is Apple’s platform for distributing and selling audiobooks. When you choose to distribute your audiobook on Apple Books, it’s made available to anyone with access to Apple Books. Some of Apple's preferred audiobook distribution partners include:

Bookwire
De Marque
Draft2Digital
Ingram/CoreSource
Lantern
OTOBANK
PublishDrive
Zebralution

The Benefits: Apple Books is known for high-quality audiobook listings and a vast, diverse customer base. As an author, you can also set your own prices, which provides more control over your earnings.

Considerations: To distribute your audiobook on Apple Books, you'll need to work with an authorised distributor. If you need assistance with production, collaborating with a professional production company or experienced narrator is advisable.

Tip: If you want to reach Apple users specifically, Apple Books is an important platform to consider. It allows you to target a different segment of audiobook listeners than Audible and can provide great visibility for your audiobook.

3. Google Play

Another major player in the audiobook market is Google Play. While it’s not as widely known as Audible, Google Play offers a simple way for authors to reach audiobook listeners, especially Android users.

What is Google Play Audiobook Distribution? Google Play lets authors distribute audiobooks directly to its platform, where they are available to Android users.

The Benefits: Google Play offers authors a high royalty rate and the ability to control pricing. Additionally, it’s a great option if you’re aiming to target Android users rather than Apple or Amazon users.

Considerations: Google Play does not have the same extensive audiobook catalogue as Audible or Apple Books, so getting your audiobook noticed might be a bit more challenging. Still, with millions of Android users, it’s a platform worth considering.

Tip: Google Play is a great choice if you’re looking to target Android users specifically. It’s a simple platform that allows authors to easily upload their audiobooks and maintain control over pricing.

4. Libraries: OverDrive and Bibliotheca

If you want your audiobook to reach beyond just book buyers, distributing your audiobook to libraries can be a great option. Platforms like OverDrive and Bibliotheca allow you to get your audiobook into public libraries where patrons can borrow it for free.

What is Library Distribution? OverDrive and Bibliotheca are platforms that distribute audiobooks to libraries worldwide. Libraries buy licenses to audiobooks, allowing them to offer your work to their patrons.

The Benefits: Library distribution gives your audiobook incredible exposure and reaches an audience that may not otherwise purchase audiobooks. It’s a great way to build your fanbase and increase awareness of your work.

Considerations: Library distribution typically involves a different pricing model, and authors may earn less per loan compared to direct sales on platforms like Audible. Still, the exposure can be well worth it.

Tip: Consider library distribution if you want to push your book’s reach beyond just the paying audiobook listeners. Libraries are a fantastic option for authors looking to broaden their audience.

5. Other Aggregators: Findaway Voices

Findaway Voices is a distribution service that allows authors to distribute their audiobooks to a wide range of platforms, including Audible, Apple Books, Google Play, and many others.

What is Findaway Voices? Findaway Voices acts as an audiobook aggregator, allowing you to upload your audiobook once and have it distributed to multiple platforms.

The Benefits: This service makes distribution easy, with the ability to reach a wide array of audiobook retailers and libraries. It also offers a great royalty structure and control over pricing.

Considerations: As with any aggregator, Findaway Voices takes a commission on each sale, so you’ll want to weigh the convenience of distribution with the associated costs.

Tip: If you want simplified distribution to many platforms without dealing with each one individually, Findaway Voices is an excellent option. It offers global reach and flexibility while making the process easy to navigate.

6. Which Distribution Method Is Right for You?

The best distribution method for your audiobook depends on several factors, including your target audience, pricing strategy, and how much control you want over your sales channels. Whether you choose to distribute exclusively through Audible or want to reach a broader audience with services like Findaway Voices, it’s essential to think about where your ideal listeners are most likely to find your work.

At Indie Audiobook Productions, we’re committed to helping you produce a high-quality audiobook that you can confidently upload to any of these mentioned platforms.

By understanding your distribution options, you can make informed decisions about where to sell your audiobook and how to get it in front of the right listeners. Whether you want to stick to one platform or spread your audiobook across many, you’ll be confident that your audiobook will sit proudly on any of these distributor platforms and will shine bright.

For more help on the postproduction part of getting your audiobook to market and giving it the best chance at success, sign up for the Indie Audiobook Productions Gazette today!