Spotify is introducing new ways for users to personalize their listening experience. A new feature allows users to filter their entire library by specific activities, moods, or genres. These filters can be used to find music playlists and, to a certain extent, audiobooks and podcasts. They can also be used to instantly start a new session with Spotify’s AI DJ.
These smart filters began rolling out on Friday. They will first be available to Premium subscribers using mobile devices and tablets in select markets, including the U.S., U.K., Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, and South Africa. Spotify estimates the rollout will be completed over the next few weeks.
This launch is part of the company’s ongoing focus on adding more personalization tools to its app. While these features may seem like small additions, they help differentiate Spotify from its competitors and can make the service more essential for existing users.
In recent months, Spotify has released several personalized features. In April, the company began offering tools to create AI-generated playlists using text prompts. New playlist management tools and a feature for creating custom cover art were added in May. Users can now also use voice commands with the AI DJ to personalize their music and enjoy a revamped version of the flagship Discover Weekly playlist.
Despite these innovations, some users feel that Spotify’s interface is becoming too crowded. This is especially true as the company expands into social networking by adding features like messages, podcast comments, polls, Q&As, and stories. A recent design shift that incorporates TikTok-like vertical feeds and the introduction of music videos and video podcasts have contributed to a busier app experience.
The company has often faced complaints about an overly busy user interface. The continual addition of new features has left some users feeling frustrated and overwhelmed. This, combined with a heavy focus on algorithmic suggestions, has even pushed some subscribers to abandon Spotify entirely.
However, Spotify continues to report growth in its user base. The number of monthly active users swelled by 11 percent to 696 million in the last quarter compared to a year earlier. The number of subscribers also grew by 12 percent, reaching 276 million.