Does Audible Work on Apple Watch?

Since its inception, the Apple Watch has become much more than a timekeeping device. With each new iteration and watchOS update, the wearable tech has...

Since its inception, the Apple Watch has become much more than a timekeeping device. With each new iteration and watchOS update, the wearable tech has grown into a versatile, all-around gadget. From fitness tracking to calling, messaging, and even playing music or podcasts, the Apple Watch is an all-in-one device for those on the go. As a result, many have asked: "Can you play Audible on Apple Watch?" or more specifically, "Can I listen to Audible on an Apple Watch without an iPhone?" In this article, we'll address these questions, the syncing process, and other related topics concerning the Audible app, audiobooks, and the Apple Watch.

Audible and Apple Watch: A Match Made in Audiobook Heaven?

As an Amazon subsidiary, Audible has become the leading provider of spoken word entertainment and audiobooks. Yet, there's a lingering query: "Why doesn’t Audible work with Apple Watch?" It is important to note that the native Audible app, available on the App Store, was initially designed to work directly with iOS devices like the iPhone, Mac, and iPad. However, as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the Audible app was not a part of the available apps directly installable on the Apple Watch, limiting direct playback from the watch itself.

Nonetheless, this doesn't mean you can't listen to Audible audiobooks on your Apple Watch, even without your iPhone. The trick lies in the conversion of Audible books into a format that can be added to the Apple Watch via iTunes. Here's how you can do it:

Converting and Adding Audible Audiobooks to Your Apple Watch

First and foremost, you will need an Audible converter, a software tool that allows you to convert the Audible .aax file format (which includes DRM protection) to .m4a or .mp3, among other formats like FLAC. Ensure your converter has an output setting compatible with iTunes.

Once you have your converter ready, follow these steps:

1. Download Audible Audiobooks: Access your Audible account and download the Audible books you want to listen to on your watch. Remember, these come in the .aax format.
2. Convert Audible Audiobooks: Open your Audible converter, add the downloaded .aax files, and hit the 'Convert' button. Remember to select an output format compatible with iTunes, typically .m4a or .mp3. The conversion speed may vary depending on the software and the size of the audiobook.
3. Add Converted Audiobooks to iTunes: Open iTunes on your Mac or PC, and import the converted audiobooks. You can do this by going to 'File' -> 'Add File to Library' and selecting the converted files.
4. Sync to Apple Watch: First, pair your Apple Watch with your iPhone via Bluetooth. Then, open the Apple Watch app on your iPhone, scroll down to 'Music', and select 'Add Music'. You can then select the converted audiobooks from your iTunes library. The syncing process will start automatically.

For the first time, you might need to keep your watch on its charger until the sync is complete. The Apple Watch must be charging, in range of your iPhone, and have at least 50% battery life for syncing to occur.

Listening to Audible on Apple Watch

Once the audiobooks are synced to your Apple Watch, you can listen to them anytime, even without your iPhone, perfect for offline listening. Simply pair your Apple Watch with Bluetooth headphones, and you can start enjoying your Audible books. Navigate to the 'Music' app on your Apple Watch, find your audiobooks, and press play.

As for the watch icon, it allows you to control the playback, adjust volume, and navigate through chapters. If you have the latest watchOS installed, new features may provide even more controls for audiobook playback.

Inconveniences and Considerations

While this method of listening to Audible audiobooks on your Apple Watch without an iPhone works, it's worth noting that there are some inconveniences.

First, every time you want to listen to a new Audible book, you'll need to go through the same conversion and syncing process. This can be time-consuming and might be a hassle for some users.

Second, there's the issue of storage. Audiobooks, especially longer ones, can take up considerable space. The Apple Watch has limited storage, which means you may have to carefully manage your available space if you also use the watch for other functions, like downloading music or podcasts.

Finally, there's the matter of playback control. While the Apple Watch allows you to play, pause, and skip through chapters, it does not offer as much functionality as the Audible app on your iPhone. For instance, features like speeding up or slowing down the narration or setting a sleep timer aren't available.

So, does Audible work well with Apple Watch? Adding an audiobook to your Apple Watch using the Audible app is a straightforward process. Simply follow these instructions: Begin by launching the Audible app on your Apple Watch. Then, navigate to your Library. Once there, find the audiobook you wish to download and tap on it.