Audible launches AI-powered features for interactive audiobook experiences

Audible, the Amazon-owned audiobook platform, introduced three new features on October 1 that leverage generative AI and other technologies to enhance listening experiences: a character guide, interactive stories, and additional imagery and background information for landmarks or places mentioned in books.

The character guide debuted with the Audible Original production of “Dracula,” released the same day. It displays in real time which character is speaking directly on the player page, helping listeners keep track of the cast, and provides spoiler-free character cards with narrator bios. Audible said users will later be able to ask the guide questions about the story as it unfolds. The feature will also be available on the Audible Original of George Orwell’s “1984” and the forthcoming “Exoplanet,” written by Benjamin Percy and executive produced by Andy Weir.

The interactive stories feature, powered by generative AI, also launches with “Dracula” and “Exoplanet.” It allows listeners to converse with a character in the book — for example, in “Dracula,” listeners can interact with Renfield, the count’s servant. The character speaks first, giving the listener a role, goal, and stakes, and the listener responds in their own words, with the character reacting in real time. Audible said creators are involved in establishing the foundations of these interactive stories to keep them faithful to the source material.

The third feature adds visual imagery and bonus information for landmarks or places mentioned in a book, debuting with Sheehan Quirke’s “The Cultural Tutor: A Modern Guide to History, Art and Philosophy in 49 Short Chapters.” The features are currently in beta, with plans to expand to more titles over time.