Spotify announces new messaging feature for free and premium users
Spotify is giving social features another push with Messages, a new way to share content directly within the app. The company had flirted with more social features with Inbox, which was launched in 2010 and shut down in 2017.
Messages is a more straightforward approach, more akin to DMs you would find on platforms like Instagram or WhatsApp. The feature will allow users to share music, podcasts, or audiobooks directly within the app. Though users will still be able to share content with external platforms if they wish.
The feature will be available to both free and premium users, aged 16 or older. To use it, you can start a message by sending a message request or by interacting with people you have already messaged before. Once your request is accepted, you'll be able to seamlessly share content back and forth. You can use emojis.
To access Messages, click on your profile photo in the top left to find the feature. You'll also get recommendations based on things "like whether you've previously shared Spotify content with them, joined Jams, Blends, or collaborative playlists together, or if you share a Family or Duo plan."
Spotify says that you can still use external platforms, and Messages are "designed to complement these integrations, not replace them."
For security, you can accept or reject message requests and report inappropriate behavior. You can also block users or opt out of using Messages entirely in settings. These chats are protected "with industry standard encryption," and the platforms will also proactively scan chats "for certain unlawful or harmful content," and moderators will review reported chats.
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