Spotify is rolling out a new direct messaging feature that allows users to share music, podcasts, and audiobooks with each other within the app. This feature, called Messages, is being introduced in select markets this week and will be available to both Free and Premium users aged 16 and older on mobile devices.
To access the messaging feature, users can simply tap the share icon while listening to a song, podcast, or audiobook in the Now Playing view and select a friend to send it to. Users can share content and start conversations with friends they share a Spotify plan with, as well as other users they have interacted with through Spotify in various ways.
The goal of this feature is to centralize content recommendations that are currently shared through texts, social media, and other messaging services into one convenient location within the Spotify app. Any shared audio content will be stored in the Messages inbox, making it easy for users to revisit and enjoy them again in the future. The messaging feature supports 1:1 conversations, text messaging, emoji reactions, and is encrypted to ensure user privacy.
Users have the option to accept or reject message requests, block other users, or opt out of Messages entirely. Additionally, users can report any inappropriate content or messages by flagging them within the app. Spotify will also proactively monitor Messages for any unlawful or harmful content and review reported chats.
It is not yet clear if artist accounts will have access to this feature to interact with their fans. Spotify emphasizes that Messages is meant to complement existing social platforms like Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, Snapchat, and TikTok, rather than replace them. This new social feature, available even to free users, could open up possibilities for more user-to-user interactions in the future.
