Apple Watch Sound Update Enables Standalone Operation Without iPhone
Audible, the audiobook streaming service owned by Amazon, has made improvements to its Apple Watch app that improves its functionality and makes it possible to use the app independently of the smartwatch. The new operating system allows Audible to work independently of Apple’s watchOS platform, so users will be able to stream or download titles from Audible directly to the Apple Watch even if the tethered iPhone is not nearby or connected at the time. This makes Audible useful for times when the user might be out of the iPhone, and will come in handy on LTE-enabled Apple Watch devices.
The company confirmed the new updates in a press release, saying that new features include free iPhone streaming, and the Apple Watch can now connect independently to Audible if it has an active data connection.
Titles can also be downloaded to the Apple Watch to enable offline listening, which will be useful for non-LTE Apple Watch devices. Controlling playback speed and seamless synchronization across devices is also now available independently of Apple Watch.
Of course, Apple Watch users still need to connect headphones or earbuds to be able to listen to audiobooks and other content on the smartwatch. However, the lack of dependence on a tethered iPhone makes it possible now to use Audible even if you leave the iPhone behind, a feature that has been available in other applications for a long time, including Apple Music.
Audible is available in India, with a subscription service priced at Rs. 199 per month after a 30-day free trial for first-time users. Some content on the platform is available for free with no membership required, but many audiobooks need to be purchased even after registration, or used using credits available to subscribers.
