Spotify is reportedly developing a new feature that will revolutionize the way audiobook listeners engage with their favorite books. According to Android Authority, the latest version of the Spotify app includes hints of a Page Match beta feature that aims to seamlessly sync audiobooks on the platform with their physical and ebook counterparts.
To utilize Page Match, users will need to unlock or purchase the audiobook on Spotify and also own the paper or ebook version of the same book. The feature operates by scanning the page being read using the device camera, utilizing optical character recognition (OCR) to identify passages that are then matched to specific timestamps in the audiobook.
The primary goal of Page Match is to eliminate the need for manual fast-forwarding and rewinding. Additionally, it seems that the feature may work in reverse as well. Code snippets suggest that Spotify will display the corresponding page number of the audiobook position, facilitating an easy transition between listening and physical reading for book lovers. Spotify describes the feature as being able to “match your progress from the book page to the audiobook — and back again.” However, variations in page numbers across book editions could potentially complicate this process.
While Spotify has not officially announced Page Match, its functionality is still in development. The OCR technology used for Page Match may not always be reliable, as reported by Android Authority. In such cases, Spotify may prompt users to scan a nearby page if the passage cannot be identified.
In comparison, Amazon offers a similar feature called Whispersync for Voice, which syncs Audible audiobooks with Kindle ebooks. However, this solution does not support syncing with physical books or ebooks from other platforms. Page Match’s versatility in this aspect could make it convenient for individuals to seamlessly transition from reading to listening while engaged in activities like driving, cooking, or other hands-on tasks. As someone who values productivity, I find this feature particularly appealing.
