Many Audible users wonder if they can enjoy their audiobooks without an internet connection. The good news is yes – with proper preparation, you can listen to Audible offline on most devices. This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about offline listening with Audible.
- Audible supports offline listening on mobile devices through its app
- Desktop users need to download files through the website or iTunes
- Third-party converters allow playback on unsupported devices
- Downloading requires available storage space and active subscription
- 27.3 million – Active Audible users worldwide
- 200,000+ – Audiobooks available in Audible’s catalog
- 85% – Users who listen to audiobooks offline regularly
Understanding Audible’s Offline Capabilities
Audible, owned by Amazon, is the world’s largest audiobook platform with over 200,000 titles. While streaming is convenient, offline listening solves several common problems:
- No WiFi access during flights or commutes
- High cellular data costs for streaming
- Poor network connections in remote areas
The offline feature works differently across devices. Mobile users get the simplest experience, while desktop users face more limitations since Audible discontinued its dedicated Windows and Mac apps.
How to Listen to Audible Offline on Different Devices
Mobile Devices (iOS/Android)
- Install the Audible app from your device’s app store
- Log in with your Amazon/Audible credentials
- Navigate to your Library and find the audiobook you want
- Tap the download icon (cloud with arrow) to save it offline
- Access downloaded books anytime in the “Downloads” section
Windows/Mac Computers
Since Audible’s desktop app is discontinued, you have three options:
- Audible Website: Download AA/AAX files through your browser
- iTunes: Authorize your account and import downloaded files
- Windows Media Player: Play downloaded files after authorization
- Saves mobile data when not on WiFi
- Works during flights with airplane mode
- Provides uninterrupted listening in areas with poor reception
- Allows listening on devices without internet capability
Advanced Offline Listening Solutions
For devices that don’t support Audible’s official apps (like MP3 players or smart TVs), you can use third-party converters to remove DRM protection and convert files to universal formats like MP3. Popular options include:
- Viwizard Audible Converter
- Epubor Audible Converter
- AudKit Audible Converter
These tools typically offer:
- Conversion to MP3, AAC, FLAC and other formats
- Preservation of chapter markers and metadata
- Batch processing for multiple books
- High-speed conversion (up to 100x faster)
Q: Do I need to keep my Audible subscription to listen offline?
A: For purchased books, no – they remain available. For Plus Catalog titles, yes – access ends if your subscription lapses.
Q: How much storage space do Audible downloads use?
A: It varies by book length, but average about 50-150MB per hour of audio. A 10-hour book might use 500MB-1.5GB.
Q: Can I transfer my Audible downloads to another device?
A: Officially, no – downloads are tied to your authorized devices. Using a converter allows transfer to any device.
Final Thoughts
Audible’s offline listening features make it possible to enjoy audiobooks anywhere, whether you’re flying across continents or just commuting through a tunnel. While the process varies by device, the flexibility is worth the initial setup.
For more audiobook tips, visit our guide to multilingual audiobook listening on Audible.
