CALIFORNIA (Kashmir English): Spotify has launched a new feature, Messages, where users can share and discuss music, podcasts, and audiobooks without leaving the app.
The feature rolls out this week to free and Premium subscribers aged 16 and above in some markets. Once launched, it is available on mobile devices only.
How this Feature Works
Messages work as in-app, direct, one-on-one conversations and not as group chats. If the user is listening to a track, a podcast, or an audiobook, he or she can touch the share icon, choose someone to send the content to, and automatically send the content.
If the recipient has not yet been in conversation with the sender before, then the message gets relayed through a request system like other social applications like Instagram.
After accepting the request, users can still text, use emoji reactions, and gain access to more Spotify content. The feature can be accessed by tapping the profile picture in the top-left of the app.
Spotify proposes potential contacts based on previous activity, i.e., mutual playlists, Jams, Blends, or subscription to the same Family or Duo plan.
The feature does not have to be used by users. They can turn off the feature in settings and still share Spotify content via external platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, or Telegram.
Spotify has stated that all chats are encrypted when transmitted and stored. But the company scans messages with automated tools to find illegal or offensive material, which moderators can then consider.
