Audiobooks Illuminated

Margin Notes

About this app

Experience your audiobooks like never before.


Audiobooks Illuminated is a local-first, privacy-focused player built for listeners who want more than just a static cover. It pairs a robust audio player with dynamic "Illuminations" (synced artwork, maps, and scene info that update in real time with your book).



See the Story


• Dynamic Illuminations: Screen artwork updates with the narrative. View maps, character art, and diagrams synced to the story.


• Deep Dive: Pinch-to-zoom on maps or view embedded scene notes and quotes while listening.


• Immersive UI: The player interface dynamically adapts its color scheme to match current artwork.



Your Library, Your Rules


• Private & Local: No cloud logins, subscriptions, ads, or tracking. Your data stays on your device and local network.


• Folder-First: Respects your existing folder structure without forcing database reorganizations.


• Desktop Sync: Wirelessly sync playback position and library stats with our free companion desktop app over local Wi-Fi.



How Illuminations Work


Illumination packs contain images, maps, and timing rules synced to your audiobook. Easily add them to any book using in-app search or by entering a 4-digit shortcode. Prefer full control? You can also create your own or drop an `illuminations.zip` file directly into your book's folder.



Beta Notice


This app is in active beta development. Feedback, bug reports, and Illumination pack suggestions are welcome via our support email!



Features



Powerful Audio Engine


• Custom Playback: Speed controls, pitch adjustments, noise reduction, and EQ presets.


• Silence Trimming: Automatically skip quiet gaps between sentences or chapters.


• Volume Boost: Enhance quiet recordings for noisy environments.


• Smart Pause Rewind: Automatically rewind slightly when resuming playback.



Visuals & Artwork


• Illumination Search: Discover and download synced artwork and map packs.


• Full-Screen Artwork: Custom resize, pan, and saved focal position views.


• Custom Cover Import: Replace covers via web search or local image files. View covers full-screen, zoomed and positioned exactly how you want.



Smart Sleep Timer


• Shake to Reset: Extend the sleep timer without looking at your screen.


• Volume Fade-Out: Audio gently lowers as the timer ends instead of stopping abruptly.



Sync & Ecosystem


• Local Wi-Fi Sync: Transfer books and sync stats with the companion desktop app.


• Audiobookshelf Support: Direct downloads, bookmark sync, and position sync.



On The Go & Widgets


• Android Auto: Full hands-free playback controls for commuting.


• Homescreen Widgets: Resizable widgets with playback controls and artwork displays.



Library & Companion Tools


• Chapters & Formats: Plays MP3, M4B, and multi-file books with full chapter support.


• Personal Notes: Store thoughts, key moments, and quotes for every book.


• Listening History: Track detailed listening sessions and lifetime total hours.


• Custom Themes: Choose from multiple visual styles to match your taste.


• Smart Companion (Optional): One-click prompts for spoiler-free summaries, character guides, lore glossaries, and custom cover generation. Use Gemini or any other AI app with the share sheet.

What’s new

Latest Updates:
• Adjusted book Notes rendering improve Markdown Handling and collapse headlines.
• Added book details link to the player top-bar.
• Added request for markdown codeblocks to AI Companion prompts.
• Added Sound Settings that provide volume boost, EQ presets, and noise reduction.
• Fixed a few bugs related to metadata and chapter extraction from MP3 files.