Spotify has recently shown Your new messaging functionwhich will be directly integrated into the application and allow users to exchange music recommendations, podcasts and audiobooks without leaving it. The function, called ‘Messages’, has begun to deploy this week in selected markets for users that are over 16 years. In addition there will be no distinction between the plan chosen, so they can use it both users of the free plan and the premium.
How it works. Users can now send messages by touching the sharing icon while listening to content in the “reproducing now” view and selecting a friend from their list. It is only possible to initiate conversations with people with whom it has already been previously interacted through functions such as Jams, Mergers, collaborative lists or that they share a family plan or Spotify duo. Once the application is sent, the recipient must approve it to begin the conversation.
Image: Spotify
Why is it relevant. For years, users have shared Spotify links through WhatsApp, Instagram, Tiktok and other platforms. Now the company seeks to centralize these interactions within its own application, creating a history of shared content that users can easily consult. As Explain The company, the function is “designed to complement these integrations, not replace them.”
Characteristics and limitations. The conversations are one by one, admit text and reactions with emojis, and all the shared content is stored in an accessible input tray from the profile photo. The company ensures that messages are protected with a “standard industry encryption” and has proactive detection systems for harmful or illegal content. Users can block accounts, reject message requests or completely deactivate the function from privacy settings.
Image: Spotify
Another step to become a social app. This function is part of a broader Spotify strategy to add social elements to its platform. In recent months, the company has introduced comments in Podcasts and redesigned its feed with a more visual approach. Last month, Gustav Söderström, product director and technology at Spotify, already advancement that the mobile experience would be “much more interactive.” Over the last years we have seen the application become a kind of Frankenstein monster Between musical app, videos, podcasts and now this social approach that seeks to monopolize the time users spent in it.
And now what. Messages will initially be launched in Latin America and will expand in the coming weeks to the United States, Canada, Brazil, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. We will have to wait to know what the reaction of this new function will be by users and how will it be complemented with the use we usually give to the application.
Cover image | Spotify
In Xataka | Unraveling the financial “miracle” of Spotify: how he has declared benefits after 18 years losing money
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings