Audiobooks purchased from Well-Trained Mind Press are in standard MP3 format, which we send in compressed (zipped) files for quicker downloading to an audiobook app. If you follow the instructions related to your device and your preferred audiobook app, the download process should be seamless.
- Scroll down to find instructions for working with older Apple devices.
- To learn how to download directly to newer iPhones and iPads, read this FAQ.
- If you have downloaded the MP3 files to the cloud instead of local storage, do an internet search using a string something like this: "download MP3 files from (name of cloud service) to (name of device)" to find out how to download the files (unzip and then get into the audiobook) within the requirements of your specific storage and device configuration.
The quickest way to find out how to download MP3 files to your device is to search the web (using Google or Bing or whatever search engine you prefer). Try the search string “download MP3s to _____”, putting the name of the device or operating system into the blank. So, for example, “download MP3s to Android” and then follow the instructions from the response that looked most applicable to your particular situation.
For Apple devices running iOS 11 or later, look at the Apple Support Center article: How to open ZIP files on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch
For Android devices, you can use Google File.
Use the right app - an audiobook app.
In late 2019, operating system vendors (Apple, Google, Microsoft) updated their systems and apps. Until this time, people downloaded any MP3 file to any streaming app (like iTunes) and started listening. In 2019, starting with the Catalina iOS, Apple announced changes to iTunes; these changes are described in this article from Apple's Support site.
Now, audiobooks organize themselves and play much better on apps specifically designed for listening to audiobooks--much better than they play on podcast or music-streaming apps, or even on iTunes. (And likewise, MP3s with music content play better on music apps; those with podcast content on podcast apps.)
The vendors include these apps with their devices. Search the web for free and paid audiobook apps available for your specific device and technology “ecosystem.” You will also find evaluations and recommendations from experts who pay attention to these things. These recommendations will help you determine what works best for your device, and what meets your family’s needs.
As an added bonus, many of the apps provide you with access to both to your local library and also to libraries in the larger world. This can be of help to you in finding the books you need for your homeschool, especially those books that are no longer in print or are open access. Some of the outside resources are free; some require payment or subscription.
If you are using "mature" technology...read on.
We recommend downloading MP3 files from WTM Press to your computer, and then moving them to your preferred device according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Older phones can unzip files by using an un-zip app. Check your phone vendor's store to find an app that works for you.
Older Apple devices have a slightly odd protocol for working with MP3s. The following instructions have helped many people download MP3s to older Apple devices.
- Using a laptop or a desktop computer, download the ZIP folder at the link we sent you.
- Once the folder is downloaded, open the ZIP folder or "unzip it." This will happen automatically when you open it, or you can right-click on the folder and choose "extract all," which accomplishes the same thing.
- Now you will see that the ZIP folder contains several MP3 audio files - all the individual sections/chapters of the book. Put those MP3 files into your iTunes library.
Note: You may rename the files to make them easier to find if you have lots of audiobooks, or to suit your preferred naming convention.
- Finally, “synch” your iPad, iPhone or iPod with the iTunes account on the laptop or desktop. If you have never done this before, you can find Apple’s instructions here: http://support.apple.com/kb/ht1386
Now all the MP3s will be on your mobile device and you can listen to them anywhere.
If you still have trouble, check with Apple’s online support and look for the user manual for your specific device. Over time, Apple has changed the MP3 download process on its various products.