How to Convert iOS Files to an Audiobook

Whether you’re looking to turn your own writings into an audiobook or convert a variety of your own audio files for listening on the go, this tutorial...

Whether you’re looking to turn your own writings into an audiobook or convert a variety of your own audio files for listening on the go, this tutorial is designed to guide you step by step. We'll cover everything from basic file conversions on Apple and Windows devices to more advanced tips, making sure you're fully equipped to enjoy audiobooks on your iPhone, iPad, iPod, or even your Kindle. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Gather Your Audio Files

First things first, let's gather the audio files you want to convert into an audiobook. You might have music files, mp3 files, or podcasts saved on your device. If you're on a Mac, you'll likely find these in the Music app or using Finder. Windows users can check their Documents or Music folders. Make sure your files are in a compatible audio format (like AAC or MP3). If you’re planning to use these files across Apple devices, consider converting them to M4B files, which are specifically designed for audiobooks and allow you to bookmark your last listened spot.

Step 2: Convert the Files

To convert your audio files into an audiobook format, you’ll need to use iTunes on both Windows and macOS. Here’s how:

1. On macOS: Open iTunes, select ‘Music’ from the dropdown menu in the top left, then find your file in the sidebar under ‘Library’. Right-click the file, choose ‘Get Info’, and under ‘Options’, change the media kind to ‘Audiobook’. Drag your file to the ‘Books’ sidebar item, and it will appear in your Apple Books app under the ‘Audiobook’ section.
2. On Windows: The process is similar. Open iTunes, locate your file, right-click, select ‘Get Info’, and change the media kind to ‘Audiobook’. Drag the file to the playlist labeled ‘Books’ on the sidebar.

Step 3: Sync Your Audiobook Files

After converting your files, the next step is to ensure they’re accessible across all your iOS devices. You can sync them via iCloud or directly through iTunes.

1. Via iCloud: Make sure you are signed in with the same Apple ID across all devices. On your Mac, open the Apple Books app and ensure that ‘iCloud Drive’ is turned on in System Preferences under ‘Apple ID’. This will automatically sync your audiobooks across all devices.
2. Via iTunes: Connect your device (iPhone, iPad, iPod) to your computer. Open iTunes, select the device icon, go to the ‘Books’ tab, and check ‘Sync Audiobooks’. Choose whether you want to sync all audiobooks or selected ones. Click ‘Apply’ to start syncing.

Step 4: Enjoy Your Audiobooks

Now that you've synced your audiobooks, they should be readily available on your iOS devices. To find them on an iPhone or iPad, open the Books app and tap on ‘Audiobooks’ at the bottom of the screen. On an iPod, you’ll find them in the ‘Music’ menu under ‘Audiobooks’.

Convert your own text into audiobooks

If you have text or images and would like to convert those into audiobooks, you can use Speechify Voiceover. Simply import your text, select a voice, add royalty free background music, and you are done!

Tips for Enjoying and Sharing Audiobooks

1. Bookmarking: Use the bookmarking feature on M4B files to save your spot.
2. Listening on Android: Want to listen on an Android device? No problem! Transfer the audiobook files to your Android via a USB or download them directly if they’re saved in a compatible app like Audible or Amazon Kindle.
3. Creating Playlists: Organize your audiobooks into playlists in iTunes or the Apple Books app for easy access.

Converting your audio files into audiobooks can seem daunting at first, but with these steps, you’ll find it straightforward and rewarding. Whether you’re converting old podcasts into a personal listening library or making your writings accessible in audio format, the ability to craft your own audiobooks opens up a new realm of possibilities. Enjoy the process and your new audiobook collection!

FAQ on Converting and Handling Audiobooks on iOS