[akshaybhalotia]

I have a slightly larger issue with the lock-in mechanisms of such "purchases". Whether I pay through Apple IAP or directly to Spotify, I can access the audiobook only on Spotify. No where else. I can't import that audiobook to another player. I can't lend it to a friend. I can't trim the parts I like and share them or listen to them independently.

Moreover, when contracts between such platforms/marketplaces and publishers go south, I'm usually left holding an empty bag cos all of the content is removed from the platform without any refunds. (Happens frequently with game stores.)

Last I checked, that's not how a "purchase" is supposed to work. Take an example of, say, an actual book. So am I ... "subscribing" to a book now? Doesn't seem like it cos I can't cancel it and get a refund. So what exactly is this model? What am I paying for?

[BLKNSLVR]

The only 'purchase' model that works for me is where I have control of a physical or electronic copy. I got bitten by 'purchasing' music on Google Play Music - yes, there was / is the 'take-out' option, but that was such a clunky process and I'm pretty sure there were albums I paid for but didn't appear in the download (I didn't keep track of all my purchases, they were there on Google, they'll be forever, right?).

My self-imposed restrictions:

1. Subscription: no lock-in monthly payment

2. Purchase: get physical / electronic copy that's outside the reach of remote deletion or any kind of alteration

(I did say, when GPM shut down, that I'd never go back to subscription music and committed to spending the $10 / month on music from Bandcamp instead. I've since subscribed to Spotify - the catalogue at your fingertips is too good to do without - but also maintain my $10 / month Bandcamp spend on my flavour of the month - and I keep track of it!)

[concinds]

Know any way to buy audiobooks without DRM? AFAIK, both Apple Books and Audible have it, not just Spotify.