Download Audio Books

A download audio book is a recorded version of a book, available in an electronic file that can be downloaded onto a computer, MP3 player, mobile phone or tablet. It is usually narrated by a human voice. There are many different ways to obtain them.

Using a computer

You can listen to audio books on your computer using programs like Windows Media Player, RealPlayer or WinAmp. You can also download an 'app' (an application that offers access to services), such as Audible to your computer. Visit audible.co.uk for more information.

MP3 players

An MP3 player is a portable device used to listen to electronic music and audio files. There are many different types available. If you're buying one to mainly listen to audio books, make sure you shop around and choose one that is most compatible with your audio books. An 'MP3' is a digital audio file that is quick and easy to download from the internet.

The best-known brand of MP3 player is Apple's iPod. The iPod touch is a version that comes with a built-in accessibility feature called VoiceOver, which lets you browse and select books without having to view the screen. Instead, a synthesized voice speaks the names of menus, titles and authors. It also offers Zoom magnification and the ability to inverse the screen colours.

Tablets and phones

A range of tablets and smartphones offer access to book reading via downloadable audio book apps. Your choice of device may depend on whether the primary purpose of it is as a phone or tablet first, followed by its ability to be used for reading, or vice versa. Apple produce a popular range of tablets and phones which offer VoiceOver, the screen reader that lets you browse and select books without viewing the screen. These can all be operated using electronic braille displays.

Kindle Keyboard eBook Reader

This portable eBook device from Amazon has a spoken menu option, and allows access to Audible books, which have to be downloaded to a computer first and then transferred to the Kindle. Visit audible.co.uk for more information.

Specialist players

There are also products on the market that are specifically designed for blind and partially sighted people. Good ones to look for are the DAISY Milestone 312, Victor Reader Stream and BookSense. You can get more information or order these by calling our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or emailing helpline@rnib.org.uk

Please email any thoughts you have on reading using downloadable audio books to ebooks@rnib.org.uk.