Spotify rolls out messaging to boost social interaction within the app

Spotify

Spotify has launched a new messaging feature aimed at making the app more social. The feature allows users to chat with friends directly within Spotify, keeping track of shared content so there is no need to search for previously sent songs or podcasts.

Until now, Spotify users have shared links to music and podcasts mainly via other platforms. The new feature encourages interaction within the app. Messages are one-on-one and can only be initiated with someone you have previously shared content with. This includes collaborative playlists, jams, blends, or people on Family and Duo plans. Conversation requests must be approved before chatting.

Users can also start chats from external links shared on platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, Snapchat, or TikTok by approving a request. Alternatively, an invite link can be sent to contacts. Spotify has emphasised that sharing outside the app should continue, describing the messaging feature as a complement to existing sharing methods.

Messages are accessible by tapping on profile pictures, and conversations appear under the Messages section in the hover bar on the left. Users can react to individual messages with emojis. Messages are encrypted at rest and in transit, though they are not end-to-end encrypted. Spotify monitors messages for violations of its rules, and users can report messages for review.

Spotify chief product and technology officer Gustav Söderström hinted last month that the mobile experience would become more interactive. The new messaging function aligns with this vision.

The feature is being rolled out to mobile users over 16 in select markets in Latin and South America, for both free and premium accounts. Expansion to the US, Canada, Brazil, the EU, the U.K., Australia, and New Zealand is expected in the coming weeks.