Popular music app Spotify is rolling out a major update for its application. The new version of the Spotify app brings new controls and several improvements, the company promises. Spotify itself talks about ‘experiencing a new dimension of music discovery’.
Spotify gets major update
Spotify is rolling out a series of new features aimed at improving the music experience, with more control, ease of use and personalisation for listeners. With these updates, Spotify aims to help users discover music more intuitively and compile playlists more easily.
A key improvement can be found in the controls during playback. Premium users will have access to a revamped queue design, accessible via the three bars at the bottom of the playback screen. The interface is clearer and offers direct access to features such as Shuffle, Smart Shuffle, Repeat and the Sleep Timer. Also, the queue now automatically shows recommended songs once the added tracks have ended. As a user, you can disable features like Autoplay and Smart Shuffle via settings.
In addition to the queue, Spotify is also introducing refined tools for managing recommendations. The Hide button has been revamped: one tap is enough to remove an unwanted song from a playlist, and this now applies to all devices you listen on. In addition, the new Snooze feature is being tested among Premium users. It allows you to temporarily remove a song from your recommendations for up to 30 days, without blocking it permanently.
Playlists
In terms of playlist management, improvements have been made to the mobile app. Each playlist now has add, sort and edit buttons at the top. This makes it easier to rearrange tracks, adjust titles and set your own album covers. Spotify also offers new options for turning favourite songs into playlists. In a number of English-speaking markets, including the UK, Canada and Australia, users can filter their liked songs by genre and turn them into a playlist with a single tap. Curiously, this option is not yet available in other regions.
For those who like to listen together or share playlists, there is also good news. The '+' button at the bottom right of the mobile app gives quick access to curation functions such as creating playlists, collaborating with friends, joining a Blend or starting a Jam session. Also AI Playlist, which allows you to create playlists based on descriptions or ideas, is now available in more markets.
Finally, there is a small change in navigation: the 'Your Library' option can now be found on mobile as the third icon at the bottom of the app. The update is distributed via a server-side update. So you don't have to visit the Google Play Store first to get the update.
