What is an AAX file? Developed by Audible, AAX is an enhanced audio file format that contains chapter markers, images, hyperlinks, bookmarks, and more. In reality, AAX files are encrypted M4B files, which means that all Audible AAX files are protected by Audible DRM. This is a critical point to consider since many audiobook players cannot play them. However, don't worry. I have collected all AAX players for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS, so you can choose the one that suits you best to play your Audible AAX files.
Takeaway: Play AAX on Any Player
Before proceeding with the following instructions, please note that Audible books can only be played on limited players, and even VLC is not included. In fact, some Audible players may be outdated or not very functional. However, you can convert audible aax to MP3 files using Epubor Audible Converter. This will allow you to play them on any player apps.
Once converted successfully, you can enjoy the drm-free audible mp3 file on any mp3 player.
- 1. It can download and convert audible to mp3 or m4b with 1000X conversion speed.
- 2. It can split audible into chapters.
- 3. It can 100% save your Audible quality.
- ...And more.
AAX Player Windows -- No compatible player unless Converting AAX to MP3
We can import AAX files into Audible Windows app, audible manager and even Windows media player for a long time. But as a matter of fact, Audible removes all those tools' compability with aax files. Audible DRM(Audible’s ecosystem) blocks the playback.
Converting AAX to MP3 makes thing more easily to proceed. Drag the downloaded .aax format files to the tool, and click on "Convert to MP3" button.
Best media players after conversion (aax to mp3 windows): VLC, Windows Media Player, Foobar2000, MusicBee, etc..
AAX Player Mac -- iTunes / Apple Books app
Luckily, iTunes or Books app can still be used to play Audible books on Mac if the account is linked.
iTunes (MacOS 10.14.6 Mojave or earlier)
iTunes is the pre-installed media player for Mac computer. It enables you to purchase, download and manage your media in one app. Like other Apple products, the interface of iTunes is very neat and intuitive.
Supported formats: aax, aa, m4a, m4b, mp4, mov, m4v, mp3, aax, aiff, epub, pdf etc.
- 1. Manage your video, audio and music easily.
- 2. Built-in store enables you to purchase digital copies as you like.
- 3. Chapter navigation is available.
- 4. It enables you to edit the metadata of the audible files or any other media.
Apple Books (MacOS 10.15 Catalina and later)
Apple has improved its iBooks app and named it Apple Books. Come with the new name, you’ll find that Apple Books not only manage and read ebooks, but also audiobooks. As for Audible aax or aa format audiobooks, you can also play them on Apple Books.
Supported formats: aax, aa, apple audiobooks, aac, mp3 audiobooks, epub, pdf
- 1. It enables you to manage both ebooks and audiobooks.
- 2. Built-in apple store enables you search and buy apple ebooks and audiobooks.
- 3. It allows you to set a sleep timer, adjust the playback speed and play to a speaker.
- 4. Chapter navigation is available.
The iTunes and apple books are two totally different aax players although they share some same features.
AAX Player Online -- Audible Cloud Player
If you don't like any of the AAX players for Windows and Mac listed above, you can simply play Audible AAX files online with Audible Cloud Player. This is the easiest way to listen to Audible books, but you need to keep your internet connected all the time while playing. It is not as functional as the Audible app, but if you don't want to download your Audible books, Audible Cloud Player is a good alternative.
To start online listening, simply go to your online Audible library and click on the "Listen now" button.
Supported formats: Audible aax, aa
- 1. It enables you to play audible books online without downloading.
- 2. Bookmarks and chapter navigation are both available.
- 3. It allows you to change the narration speed.
AAX Player Andriod/iOS
You can use the official audible android or ios app to play your audible titles (and podcasts).
Apps you need to install:
Download Audible app for Android Download Audible app for iOS
Audible App for Android/iOS
It shares almost the same features as the Windows app for Windows 10, but with slight differences.
1. You cannot buy Audible books through Audible for iOS, but you can do so in Audible Android.
2. Audible books downloaded via Audible for Android/iOS(latest version) are in .aaxc format, not .aax format anymore.
Amazon Music App for Android/iOS
You can also listen to your audiobook on the Amazon Music app, if you were an Amazon Music Unlimited subscriber.
1. You can only listen to 1 audiobook a month as part of your amazon music prime subscription. And selecting a new book will replace your current title.
2. As an Amazon Music Unlimited subscriber, you can also listen to your Audible audiobook in the Audible app without an Audible membership.
3. Audible and Amazon Music are separate services.
Can VLC Play AAX Files?
Can VLC play AAX files? This is the most frequently asked question when it comes to playing AAX files. I am sorry to tell all of you guys that VLC cannot play Audible AAX files, but it can play Audible AA format. However, there is no way to download audible books in aa format anymore because Audible now only uses the enhanced format (.AAX format). So there is no way to play audible with the VLC player. However, if you want to stick with VLC player, then you just need to follow the part 1 to make your audible aax files playable on any player.
These are all the Audible AAX players I want to share today. If you have any recommended Audible players, please leave them in the comments below.
Iris Yan is a passionate member of the Epubor team, dedicated to enhancing your ebook reading experience. She shares insightful tips, tricks, and practical advice to help you get the most out of your digital library. Join her on the journey to reading excellence today!
