Spotify has officially announced the introduction of direct messaging within its platform, allowing users to share music, podcasts, and audiobooks seamlessly. The rollout begins this week in select markets and will be available to users aged 16 and above. While the feature is initially launching on iOS and Android, its availability on desktop apps (Windows, macOS) and gaming consoles like PlayStation 5 remains unclear. Spotify has also not confirmed when the feature will reach users in India.
Available for Free and Premium Users
Both Spotify Free and Premium subscribers will gain access to this feature. This means users will no longer need to rely on third-party apps or social media platforms to share recommendations, making the experience more integrated within Spotify itself.
How Direct Messaging Works
The new feature allows users to:
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Recommend music, podcasts, and audiobooks directly.
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React with text or emojis to friends’ recommendations.
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Start conversations by tapping on a user’s profile picture in the top-left corner.
When sharing from the Now Playing View, users simply tap the share icon, choose a recipient, and send. The recipient will first receive a message request, after which they can continue chatting.
Smart Recommendations for Connections
Spotify will suggest potential contacts for messaging, based on:
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Past message interactions.
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Participation in Jams.
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Collaborative playlists.
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Membership in shared Family or Duo plans.
These recommendations aim to make it easier for users to connect and share within their existing Spotify ecosystem.
Privacy and Safety Measures
Spotify confirmed that conversations will be encrypted, though it has not clarified if this includes end-to-end encryption (E2EE). The company will also use proactive detection technology to prevent the sharing of unlawful or harmful content. Any reported content will be reviewed by Spotify’s moderation team to ensure safety.
Continued Social Sharing Options
While Spotify is emphasizing in-app engagement through direct messages, it will continue to support sharing content on external social platforms, ensuring flexibility for users who prefer to spread their music recommendations outside the app.
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