Spotify’s latest move lets users peek into their friends’ listening habits in real time. It’s all about creating a more social experience on the platform.
Spotify, the leading music streaming service, is rolling out a new feature designed to enhance the social aspects of music consumption. The “Listening Activity” option allows users to see what their friends and family are currently playing, provided those users have opted in. This feature is accessible through the Messages app, which Spotify previously introduced to enable song, podcast, and audiobook sharing among users.
To activate the Listening Activity feature, users need to adjust their Privacy and Social Settings. By toggling on this feature, they can choose to share their listening habits with others. Even if friends haven’t opted in, users can still see the listening activities of those who have. This unique approach fosters a sense of community among Spotify users, encouraging them to engage with each other’s musical preferences.
Once the feature is turned on, activity updates will appear in the chat section of the side menu and at the top of individual message threads. Users can easily interact with their friends’ listening choices by clicking on their activity. This interaction enables them to add tracks to their library, begin playback, or access additional options through the track’s context menu. Furthermore, users can express their reactions using one of six available emojis, making the experience more engaging.
In conjunction with the Listening Activity feature, Spotify is also introducing a new option called “Request to Jam.” This tool allows Premium users to invite friends or family to participate in live listening sessions. By tapping the Jam button, users can send an invitation, and upon acceptance, the designated host manages the session. Both participants can contribute to the shared queue and receive song suggestions tailored to their listening tastes.
The company has announced that both features will be rolled out gradually across markets where Messages are available, compatible with both Android and iOS devices. This strategic enhancement aligns with Spotify’s ongoing efforts to create a more connected and interactive experience for its users, further solidifying its position as a leader in the music streaming sector.
