Spotify announces new messaging feature for users; here’s how it works

Spotify is rolling out a new in-app messaging feature called Messages. This new feature will enable users of the popular music streaming app to share songs, podcasts, and audiobooks directly with friends and family. The company states that the feature was developed in response to user feedback, as word-of-mouth recommendations are a powerful means for people to discover new content. The new feature will begin rolling out this week to both free and premium users aged 16 and older in select markets on mobile devices. With this feature, Spotify aims to make sharing more seamless and help creators gain new fans through word-of-mouth recommendations, the company said.Spotify’s new Messages feature will enable users to engage in one-on-one conversations with other users. Using this feature, they can exchange Spotify content and respond with text or emojis. Songs, podcasts, and audiobooks can be shared from the Now Playing View by tapping the share icon, selecting a contact, and sending. Meanwhile, conversations can be started with people users have previously interacted with on Spotify, including through shared playlists, Jams, Blends, or Family and Duo plans. A message request must be accepted before the conversation begins, after which participants can freely exchange messages and Spotify content. To access Messages, users need to tap the profile photo in the top-left corner of the app. Suggested contacts may also appear for some users based on their past interactions. The feature is designed to work in conjunction with existing sharing options available through platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, Snapchat, and TikTok.The tool will also help artists, authors, and creators to reach broader audiences, as recommendations shared in private chats can boost visibility and discovery.