Spotify is experimenting with a brand new function known as “Group,” which guarantees to let subscribers see what their buddies are listening to in real-time by means of the cellular app.
Table of Content
The function — which is in early testing, however not but formally launched — can even notify customers when their buddies replace playlists.
Though Spotify has lengthy provided comparable performance by means of its desktop expertise with the Buddy Exercise function, this has largely taken a again seat in recent times, as the corporate prioritized podcasts and its cellular app.
In 2019, Spotify rejected a consumer request to convey Buddy Exercise to its iOS and Android apps. The request — which appeared on its group boards — obtained 7,451 votes in favor, suggesting vital consumer curiosity.
A stab at differentiation
Spotify’s earliest incarnations had a distinguished social aspect. On the time, this made sense. Fb and Twitter have been the most well liked digital properties.
Its greatest competitors was Final.fm, which blurred the road between area of interest music social community and streaming service.
As Spotify grew, its focus shifted. It emphasised personalization and unique content material. It pivoted to podcasts, snapping up legendary studio Gimlet Media and shopping for the rights to The Joe Rogan Expertise.
So, what’s modified? Effectively, Spotify’s market-leading place is not sure. Apple Music and Amazon Music get pleasure from vital market share, commanding 13 % and 15 % respectively, in response to analyst home MIDIA. Spotify’s share, for those who’re curious, stands at 31 %.
By including social performance, Spotify can additional differentiate its product from its rivals, with out the necessity to spend huge on platform-exclusive content material.
Take a sneak peak
Spotify is but to formally launch Group. However, for those who’re curious, you will get an early peek by typing “Spotify:Group” into Safari in your iOS system.
Credit score goes to tech investor (and hashtag creator) Chris Messina, who observed the function in a significant software program replace launched earlier this month.
Music is essentially private. I can’t be alone in my reluctance to share my listening habits with my Fb buddies, household, and informal acquaintances. When the function finally rolls out, I’ll be among the many first to disable it.
