DM Songs to Pals, Block Users

Spotify is letting you slide into different customers’ DMs — proper inside its app.

Users of the streaming service have lengthy been in a position to share songs, podcasts and audiobooks through different messaging apps and social networks. Now Spotify is including a option to unfold word-of-mouth suggestions inside its personal app with Messages, a one-to-one DM function launching this week for customers 16 and older in choose markets on cellular units.

According to Spotify, “users have told us that they want a dedicated space within the app to share their next favorite song, podcast or audiobook with friends and family, and an easy way to keep track of recommendations.” The firm says the aim is “to give users what they want and make those moments of connection more seamless and streamlined in the Spotify app.”

Says Spotify: “[W]e’re excited to continue offering more ways to drive hype for the Spotify content you love.”

Of course, it’s not clear what number of Spotify customers will really reap the benefits of Messages. But the streamer is betting native DMs will end in larger engagement with the platform. Spotify notes that customers “should continue sharing Spotify content directly through your favorite platforms” like Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, Snapchat and TikTook: “Messages on Spotify is designed to complement these integrations, not replace them.”

With the Messages function, customers can share Spotify content material and begin a message in-app with folks they’ve interacted with earlier than by way of Spotify. Users will see prompt folks to message based mostly on those that have joined their Jams, Blends and Collaborative Playlists, in addition to others who share a Family or Duo plan with them.

As with different messaging platforms, Spotify customers have the selection to simply accept or reject message requests — and even block particular accounts from DM’ing them. The firm notes: “Spotify’s Terms of Use and Platform Rules against illegal and harmful content still apply to Messages, so if something doesn’t feel right, you can easily report that content or account.” The firm says it would use “proactive detection technology to scan messages for certain unlawful and harmful content, and our moderators will review reported content.” In addition, Messages on Spotify use “industry-standard encryption” for knowledge each in transit and at relaxation.

To use Spotify’s Messages function, when listening to a track, podcast or audiobook within the “Now Playing” view, faucet the share icon, choose a pal and hit “send.” Once the recipient accepts a message request, they will react with emoji or textual content. You can entry Messages by going to your profile picture within the prime left nook of the Spotify app.