Buying an audiobook from Audible might feel like purchasing a physical book, but it’s not quite the same. Because of DRM (digital rights management), you don’t fully own your audiobooks—you’re just licensing them under Amazon’s terms. That means you can’t easily move them between devices, and if Audible ever changes its policies, you could lose access.
We’ve seen this kind of thing before. Amazon recently announced that Kindle users can no longer download and transfer e-books via USB, making it harder for people to back up their purchases. And while that change affects Kindle users, the issue is the same across all digital content.
The good news? When it comes to audiobooks, you have options.
What Is Libation?
Libation is a free, open-source app that lets you download, organize, and back up your Audible library without restrictions. It removes DRM, meaning you can store your audiobooks however you want, play them on any device, and never have to worry about losing access if Audible changes its policies.
On top of that, it’s packed with useful features: it pulls in cover art, supports tagging for better organization, and has a powerful search function. It also works across multiple Audible regions, making it a great choice no matter where you are.
The latest update, Libation 12, was recently released and is available here:
Why DRM-Free Audiobooks Matter
If you’ve never thought about DRM-free audiobooks, here’s why they’re worth considering:
- They work on any device. No compatibility issues—just listen however you want.
- You actually own them. No risk of losing access due to company decisions.
Platforms like Libro.fm offer DRM-free audiobooks if you want an alternative to Audible that lets you keep your purchases forever.
The Bottom Line
Amazon’s recent Kindle policy change is just another reminder that digital purchases aren’t always as permanent as they seem. If you care about owning the audiobooks you buy, Libation gives you the tools to make that happen. It’s free, easy to use, and puts control back in your hands—exactly where it should be.
