Chapter 1: Enjoying Articles On the Move

In our busy lives, finding time to read articles from beloved authors can be quite a challenge. Like many, my schedule is packed with work and family responsibilities, leaving little room for leisurely reading.

Medium introduced a listening feature some time ago that I found enjoyable, though it had its drawbacks. When I'm at my computer, I prefer not to be distracted by stories, especially when I'm in the process of writing myself. Additionally, with my two young daughters often vying for computer time to watch YouTube, I've been cautious about their screen usage. Consequently, I haven't taken full advantage of this feature.

Recently, I received an email announcing that Medium's ISO app now has the capability to read text aloud. This is fantastic news, as it allows me to listen to articles while driving, which is likely how I'll utilize this feature the most.

Interestingly, while the link I received was dated May 17th, I had no idea about this update despite using the platform daily. I figured others might also be unaware, prompting me to write this article.

Writer FAQs — Insights from the Medium ISO App

How will this feature impact my earnings?

The listening time will be included in the payout calculations for eligible writers with metered stories.

Can I narrate my own articles?

Currently, that option is not available. We've received valuable feedback since the website's initial launch, including requests for authors to narrate their own pieces. This is something we will consider for future updates.

Can non-members access my metered stories via listening?

The same paywall rules apply to listening as they do to reading; only members can listen to stories behind a paywall.

Is it possible to disable this feature for my articles?

At this time, disabling the text-to-speech feature is not an option, as we believe it enhances accessibility to quality writing and ideas on Medium.

Will I have access to listener statistics for my articles?

Not at present, but as we enhance this feature, we may offer more insights into listener engagement, helping you understand your audience better.

Do you currently use the Medium ISO app?

Have you tried this new listening feature? What are your thoughts on it?

Chapter 2: Resources for Enhanced Listening Experiences

How to Quickly Listen to Any Article on Your iPhone - This video provides a quick guide on maximizing the listening feature on your iPhone, making it easier to enjoy articles on the go.

How to Listen to the Articles You Want to Read - Discover tips for selecting and listening to your favorite articles seamlessly.

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