Radio and podcast service TuneIn on Tuesday launched a new subscription tier, TuneIn Premium, adding things like audiobooks, live sports, and ad-free stations for a monthly fee. [updated]
listeners currently have access to some 40,000 audiobooks. Live play-by-play commentary is limited to Major League Baseball and Barclays Premier League soccer, the latter of which is also limited to the U.S. and Canada. Sports coverage does however include every game, and team-specific stations with content like coaches' shows and analysis.
Another perk is access to a set of language-learning courses.
The service finally strips out most advertising, removing banner ads and offering 600 commercial-free stations. Unusually, TuneIn said it will replace any audio ad spots with music picks and other programming tailored to each individual.
TuneIn Premium is available in the U.S., U.K., and Canada. After a 30-day trial period it costs $8 U.S. per month, whether bought on the Web or through one of the TuneIn mobile apps.
There are two iOS apps, both of which run on iPhones and iPads with iOS 7 or later. The basic app is free, while a $10 Pro version permanently strips out banners, with or without Premium, and supports recording streams.
Update: The article has been corrected to accurately reflect BPL listening options.