A new experiment by Spotify could change how readers move between physical books and audio formats. The music and audio streaming platform is reportedly testing a feature that aligns reading progress in a paper book with its audiobook, allowing users to switch formats without losing their place.
According to a report by a technology-focused publication, the feature is called page match. It works by using a smartphone camera to scan the page a user is currently reading. Optical character recognition (OCR) technology then identifies the text and matches it with the corresponding timestamp in the audiobook.
The feature is designed to work both ways. If a user starts with the audiobook, Spotify can also indicate the exact page number to open in the physical book based on listening progress. Once a successful match is made, the app saves the progress so users can resume later.
The report noted that page match is available only after the audiobook has been purchased or unlocked on Spotify. If the audiobook is not owned, the app prompts the user to buy it before enabling the feature. Spotify has also flagged possible OCR limitations. If a scanned page is not recognised, users may be asked to scan another nearby page.
One potential challenge lies in the variety of printed book editions. Paper books often have different layouts, page numbers, and formatting. If the physical book edition does not align with the audiobook version, the syncing process may not work accurately. Spotify has not made any official announcement about the feature, suggesting that such issues may still be under evaluation during testing.
Amazon already offers ebook and audiobook syncing
Amazon has long enabled users to move seamlessly between ebooks and audiobooks. A reader can switch from reading to listening and continue from the same point across devices.
This experience is powered by Amazon’s Whispersync for Voice feature, which keeps progress aligned between digital text and audio formats. However, Amazon does not support syncing with physical paper books. With page match, Spotify appears to be testing a similar concept while extending it to printed books.
If rolled out widely, the feature could offer a new way for users to combine traditional reading with audio listening, especially for those who prefer switching formats during different parts of the day.
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