Audio Version of The Economist Now Available

One thing that I've long looked forward to is the ability to get entire magazines or newspapers as high-quality audio files. While some articles are things that I really need to focus on (whether read or heard), others are things I could listen to while doing something else: either because the content is less demanding or I'm relatively less interested in it. The ability to listen to such content rather than read it makes it possible to do simple tasks like checking email or other computer tasks, light housework like dusting, exercise (jogging!), or even eating meals with something smarter than most TV is. Can't do that while reading the print versions (except eating, but even that is kind-of a hassle and can be messy).

So I learned recently that my dream in this area is starting to come true. In particular, The Economist is now offering complete audio of every issue. It looks like they just started this a few issues ago, unless I am not seeing an older "archive" link. Regardless, I am delighted that they are now offering this. I gave it a try today -- downloading the lengthy Special Report they had on Iran in the 7/21 issue. The process was easy, and the quality was very good! the files are MP3, so you can listen to them on your computer, your portable device, burn to CD, or whatever. You have to either be a subscriber to the print version, or buy each audio issue online for $8 each. Since I already subscribe to the print version, there is no extra cost for me.

So now I'm eager to learn if other print content providers already offer their entire contents, in a timely manner, and with high-production quality results. I'll be checking into Wired, Wall Street Journal, and others in this regard soon. But my first choice for this would have been The Economist, since they have the most words per page and are hence the slowest to read through each week. I'm not a fast reader, so this new audio edition is wonderful for me!