Five years after its initial launch in the United States, Apple News+ Audio Stories have expanded to the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. This expansion allows subscribers in these countries to access professionally narrated versions of top articles from various publications.
Introduction to Apple News+ Audio Stories
In July 2020, Apple introduced audio stories to its Apple News+ service, offering subscribers approximately 20 professionally narrated articles each week. These audio versions cover a wide range of topics and are sourced from esteemed publications such as Esquire, Essence, Fast Company, GQ, New York Magazine, Sports Illustrated, TIME, Vanity Fair, Vogue, Wired, and newspapers including the Los Angeles Times and The Wall Street Journal. Initially, this feature was exclusive to U.S. subscribers.
Expansion to New Countries
As of July 23, 2025, Apple News+ Audio Stories have become available to subscribers in the UK, Canada, and Australia. Users in these countries can access the audio stories through the Apple News app and, depending on the story, via the Apple Podcasts app. This expansion marks a significant milestone, as the feature is now accessible in all four countries where Apple News+ is offered.
Accessing Audio Stories
Subscribers can find the audio stories within the Apple News app by navigating to the Audio tab. This section provides a curated selection of narrated articles across various categories, including News and Politics, Business, Sports, Arts and Entertainment, and True Crime. For added convenience, some audio stories are also available through the Apple Podcasts app, allowing users to listen on multiple devices.
Subscription Details
Apple News+ is available for $12.99 per month in the United States and £12.99 in the UK. The subscription provides access to a vast array of content from leading magazines and newspapers, including The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, and The Atlantic. Additionally, Apple News+ is included in the Apple One Premier plan, which offers a bundle of Apple services for a monthly fee.
Apple’s Continued Investment in News Services
Apple’s expansion of audio stories is part of its broader strategy to enhance the Apple News platform. In recent years, the company has introduced features such as a dedicated Food section and the Emoji Game, reflecting its commitment to providing diverse and engaging content to its users.
Impact on Publishers and Subscribers
The inclusion of audio stories offers publishers an additional avenue to reach audiences who prefer audio content, potentially increasing engagement and subscription rates. For subscribers, the feature provides a convenient way to consume in-depth articles while on the go, catering to the growing demand for audio content in the digital age.
Conclusion
The expansion of Apple News+ Audio Stories to the UK, Canada, and Australia signifies Apple’s dedication to enhancing its news services and meeting the evolving preferences of its global audience. As the company continues to invest in its news platform, subscribers can anticipate more features and content that cater to diverse interests and consumption habits.
