What's the best iOS app for listening to audiobooks during long commutes or drives?

Audible is a premier audiobook service that excels for long commutes or drives due to its robust feature set. The app provides access to an extensive catalog of titles across fiction, non-fiction, and podcasts, all with high-quality narration that enhances engagement during extended travel. Key functionalities include offline downloading, which allows users to save entire books to their iPhone for playback without internet access—a critical advantage in areas with poor connectivity. Integration with Apple CarPlay enables hands-free control through the car's dashboard for safer operation, while features like variable playback speed, a sleep timer, and chapter navigation help tailor listening sessions to driving conditions, such as traffic jams or highway stretches.

However, Audible operates on a subscription model that may be costly for casual listeners compared to free alternatives. Some users report occasional technical issues after updates, like playback glitches or app crashes, though these are typically resolved in subsequent patches. Reviews indicate that many find it transforms mundane travel into productive time, with one user noting, 'Driving, walking, cooking, housework; all made more enjoyable because of these books.' For anyone seeking a reliable audiobook solution for extended journeys, Audible delivers consistently, but potential subscribers should weigh the cost against their listening habits.