Spotify has launched a new in-app messaging feature aimed at encouraging more social interaction within the platform.
According to TechCrunch, The new function allows users to send direct messages to contacts with whom they have previously shared music or collaborated on playlists. At present, the feature supports only one-to-one conversations. Users can initiate a chat if they have previously engaged in activities such as joining a collaborative playlist, Blend, or Jam session. Members of the same Family or Duo plan are also eligible to exchange messages, following mutual approval.
Spotify has long supported link sharing across external platforms including Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, Snapchat and TikTok. Now, recipients of Spotify links on these services may tap the link and approve a chat request within the app. Alternatively, users may send an invitation link to contacts.
Messages can be accessed by tapping the user’s profile picture and navigating to the ‘Messages’ section on the left-hand hover bar. Users may respond to individual messages using emoji reactions. The platform also permits users to report messages for violating its terms of service or platform rules. While messages are encrypted at rest and during transmission, they are not protected by end-to-end encryption. Spotify states it actively monitors messages for compliance with its policies.
The feature is currently being rolled out to users aged over 16 in select markets across Latin and South America on mobile devices. Spotify plans to extend availability to the United States, Canada, Brazil, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand in the coming weeks.
The addition follows recent steps to increase interactivity on the platform. Spotify has gradually expanded its social offerings, including the introduction of podcast comments and a redesigned video-centred homepage.
The company said that the new feature is intended to complement existing sharing habits rather than replace them. Users who prefer not to participate may disable messages via the Privacy and Social section in Settings.
In recent months, some users have expressed concern that Spotify’s interface has become cluttered. The messaging feature, while potentially enhancing social engagement, may add to that perception.
Gustav Söderström, Spotify’s Chief Product and Technology Officer, recently stated that the mobile experience would soon become “much more interactive”, with the introduction of messaging appearing to be a step in that direction.
