Frequently Asked Questions
How much does this cost?
It is completely free. This is a passion project and I have a full-time job, so I don’t need to monetize it. The server costs are currently minimal. If that changes in the future, I may open up a donation jar, but the apps will always be free.
How is all of this supposed to work?
The core of the platform is the Illumination Pack: a ZIP file containing images and a manifest that tells the player when to display them.
Acquire a Book: Start with your own audiobook files (MP3/M4B).
Find a Pack: Search this site for a corresponding Illumination Pack.
Combine: Download the ZIP file and drop it into the same folder as your audiobook.
Both the desktop and mobile apps will sync the images to your audio.
Acquire a Book: Start with your own audiobook files (MP3/M4B).
Find a Pack: Search this site for a corresponding Illumination Pack.
Combine: Download the ZIP file and drop it into the same folder as your audiobook.
Both the desktop and mobile apps will sync the images to your audio.
Any plans for IOS / MacOS?
Not at this time. As a solo developer, I don't own the necessary Apple hardware to build or test for those platforms.
How do I install the android app?
The app is only available in Closed Beta. Join the beta by creating an account on this site and viewing the instructions in the announcements.
Why isn't this on the Google Play Store?
The app is in the process of being added to the Play store. It is currently in Closed beta. Hopefully it will be available to everyone soon.
Why is there so much AI artwork?
I am focused on building the software, so I don't have time to hand-curate art for every book. AI tools allow me to populate the library quickly so the tech can be tested.
However, I know AI art isn't for everyone. I have added Filters to the library so you can hide all AI-generated content and only browse human-created packs.
However, I know AI art isn't for everyone. I have added Filters to the library so you can hide all AI-generated content and only browse human-created packs.
Do I really need both the Desktop and Mobile apps?
No. They work independently, but they are better together.
Just the Desktop: It’s a robust Windows audiobook player. You can explore your library and listening history, fetch cover art, and listen without ever touching the mobile app.
Just Mobile: You can manually copy books and illumination packs to your phone and use it as a standalone player.
The Ecosystem: When used together on the same Wi-Fi network, they really shine. You can sync your listening position and bookmarks, and transfer books from your PC to your phone over wifi.
Just the Desktop: It’s a robust Windows audiobook player. You can explore your library and listening history, fetch cover art, and listen without ever touching the mobile app.
Just Mobile: You can manually copy books and illumination packs to your phone and use it as a standalone player.
The Ecosystem: When used together on the same Wi-Fi network, they really shine. You can sync your listening position and bookmarks, and transfer books from your PC to your phone over wifi.
Why am I getting 403 errors in the app?
The 403 errors occur because there is a 5 downloads per day limit on accounts. This is in place because I'm paying for bandwidth out of pocket and don't want people to download gigs and gigs of data and rack up my bill. If this limit seems too low, please let me know in Feedback. I'm rethinking this limit.