Spotify Messaging Rolls Out To Keep You Inside The App

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Spotify has decided that streaming music alone isn’t sticky enough. Starting this week, the company is rolling out in-app Messages for mobile users aged 16 and above, available in “select markets” (Spotify didn’t say which, so don’t hold your breath just yet if you’re in Malaysia).

You can message friends directly within Spotify to share songs, podcasts, or audiobooks, then react with text and emojis. It’s essentially Spotify’s way of cutting out the middleman so you do not need to bounce to WhatsApp or Instagram just to share that one track you can’t stop playing.

On the privacy front, Spotify has built in a few safeguards. You can block users, reject unwanted message requests, or opt out of the whole thing altogether. Messages are encrypted both in transit and at rest, although Spotify does admit it will scan content for illegal or harmful material. In other words, your song recommendations are safe, but don’t try slipping in anything shady.

And yes, let’s not forget—Spotify already raised its subscription fees this year, which makes this update look a lot like an extra attempt to justify keeping you locked into the ecosystem. New inbox, same monthly bill.

READ MORE: Spotify Hikes Premium Prices In Malaysia For The Second Time Since 2023