TechCrunch Industry News Audible launches a cheaper ‘Standard’ subscription plan, challenging Spotify; plus, X begins testing standalone X Chat app on iOS
Mar 4, 2026
A new, cheaper Audible Standard plan is unveiled and how it changes access to audiobooks. Competition with Spotify and market moves tied to pricing and growth are explored. X is testing a standalone X Chat app on iOS, with beta demand, encryption debates, and plans to expand beyond testers. The shift toward separate apps and missing features in early builds are also discussed.
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Audible’s Lower Cost Play To Win Lighter Listeners
- Audible launched a cheaper $9 Standard plan to attract lighter audiobook listeners.
- The plan gives one monthly audiobook, curated unlimited listening, and removes ownership of audiobooks after cancellation, unlike Premium.
Choose Audible Plan Based On Ownership Needs
- Consider the trade-off between price and ownership when choosing Audible plans.
- Pay $9/month for cheaper access but lose audiobook ownership on cancellation; pay $15 to keep titles after you unsubscribe.
Early Tests Show Audible Standard Boosts Signups
- Audible expects the Standard plan to drive sizable growth based on tests in the U.K. and Australia.
- Tests showed double-digit increases in new member sign-ups versus prior offerings, projecting millions of new customers as it expands markets.