Google Home Assistant makes it easy to enjoy audiobooks hands-free using voice commands.

You can play audiobooks from Google Play Books, Audible, or other compatible services directly through your Google Home devices.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to set up and start listening to audiobooks.

Step 1: Set Up Audiobook Services

1. Google Play Books

• Audiobooks purchased on Google Play can be directly played on Google Home.

2. Audible

• Audible audiobooks can be streamed through Google Home by linking your Audible account via Google Assistant or casting from your phone.

3. Other Streaming Apps

• Use third-party apps like Spotify or Plex that support audiobooks and integrate with Google Home.

Step 2: Link Your Audiobook Service

1. Open the Google Home App:
   • Download and install the Google Home app from the Play Store or App Store if you haven’t already.
2. Link a Default Audio Provider:
   • Tap your profile icon in the top-right corner.
   • Go to Assistant Settings > Services > Music or Videos & Photos.
   • Choose and link your preferred audiobook service (e.g., Google Play Books or Audible).
3. Set Google Play Books as Default (Optional):
   • If you use Google Play Books, it’s automatically linked to your Google account.

Also Read: How to Connect Google Home Assistant to Chromecast

Step 3: Use Voice Commands to Play Audiobooks

Once your services are linked, use Google Assistant to control audiobook playback.

Common Voice Commands:

• Play an Audiobook:
  • “Hey Google, play [book name] audiobook.”
  • “Hey Google, resume my audiobook.”
• Pause or Resume:
  • “Hey Google, pause the audiobook.”
  • “Hey Google, resume playback.”
• Skip or Go Back:
  • “Hey Google, skip forward 10 minutes.”
  • “Hey Google, go back 15 seconds.”
• Check Progress:
  • “Hey Google, where did I leave off in my audiobook?”

Step 4: Stream Audiobooks from Your Phone

If your audiobook service doesn’t natively support Google Assistant, you can cast audio to your Google Home device:

1. Open the Audiobook App:
   • Launch Audible, Spotify, or another audiobook app on your phone.
2. Tap the Cast Icon:
   • Select your Google Home device from the list of available devices.
3. Control Playback:
   • Use your phone or voice commands to manage playback.

Step 5: Customize Audiobook Listening

1. Set Audiobooks as Part of Routines:
   • Open Google Home app > Routines.
   • Add an audiobook action to routines like “Goodnight” or “Relax.”
2. Adjust Volume:
   • “Hey Google, set the volume to 50%.”
   • “Hey Google, turn up the volume.”
3. Switch Devices:
   • “Hey Google, play this audiobook on the living room speaker.”

Also Read: Does Google Home Assistant Support Dolby Atmos Soundbars?

Troubleshooting Tips

1. Book Not Found:
   • Ensure the audiobook is available in your linked service library.
2. Playback Issues:
   • Restart your Google Home device or re-link your audiobook service in the Google Home app.
3. Casting Problems:
   • Check that your phone and Google Home are on the same Wi-Fi network.

Quick FAQs

1. Can Google Home Play Audible Books?

Yes, you can link Audible to Google Home or cast Audible from your phone to the device.

2. Is Google Play Books Free for Audiobooks?

No, you must purchase audiobooks individually or redeem offers for free content.

3. Can I Resume Playback Across Devices?

Yes, for Google Play Books and Audible, playback syncs across devices if you’re signed into the same account.

4. Do I Need a Subscription for Audiobooks?

Services like Audible require a subscription, while Google Play Books offers pay-per-book purchases.

Also Read: How to Cast YouTube Videos Using Google Home Assistant

5. Can I Play Audiobooks Without a Phone?

Yes, if the audiobook is linked to a compatible service like Google Play Books or Audible, you can use voice commands directly.

Conclusion

Playing audiobooks on Google Home Assistant is a convenient way to enjoy your favourite stories hands-free. By linking services like Google Play Books or Audible, or casting from third-party apps, you can easily control playback, customize your listening experience, and immerse yourself in audiobooks using voice commands.