BookPlayer
An app that plays the audiobook files you already own.
What BookPlayer does
BookPlayer is a free, open source audiobook player for iPhone, iPad and Apple Watch. It plays audiobook files you already have (M4B, M4A and MP3), with chapters, speed control, a sleep timer and CarPlay. It's made by an independent developer.
BookPlayer doesn't sell books. It's for the audiobooks you already own, like DRM-free files from an independent store, CDs you ripped, or recordings from a library. Bring them in through AirDrop, the Files app, a zip file, or your own Audiobookshelf or Jellyfin server.
Once they're in, it feels like a proper audiobook app: it remembers your place, shows chapters, lets you change speed, skips back a little when you resume, and has a sleep timer and a volume boost. It works with CarPlay, plays on Apple Watch on its own, and supports VoiceOver.
The app is free and its code is public on GitHub. Optional Pro and support plans fund the developer, but the App Store page doesn't list what Pro adds. It's Apple only, so on Android you'll need a different player.
Alternatives to BookPlayer
Who it's for
Skip it if: People looking for books to buy or borrow.
Pricing
Free planBookPlayer is free. Optional Pro costs $4.99 a month or $49.99 a year, and there are tip options from $2.99. The App Store doesn't say exactly what Pro includes.
Prices can vary by country. Checked 17 Oct 2026.
What people like
- Free and open source
- Excellent ratings on the App Store
- Great Apple Watch and CarPlay support
- Made by an independent developer
Watch out for
- You have to bring your own audiobooks
- Apple devices only
- Unclear what the paid Pro plan adds
Want a player built around your own audio? Build your own.
Describe your app idea and Bilt builds it. Free to start, on your phone in minutes.
Try this idea: “an app that plays the audio lessons I upload, remembers where I stopped in each one, and shows my listening streak”
Questions people ask
Is BookPlayer free?
Yes. It's free to use, with optional Pro plans and tips that support the developer.
Which audiobook files does BookPlayer play?
M4B, M4A and MP3. You can import them through AirDrop, the Files app, zip files or your own Audiobookshelf or Jellyfin server.
Does BookPlayer work on Apple Watch and in the car?
Yes. It plays on Apple Watch on its own, and it works with CarPlay.