Spotify is launching direct messages, popularly known as DMs by most people, on its platform. Beginning this week, the feature is rolling out to Free and Premium users aged 16 and above in “select markets” on mobile only for now.
In a news post, the streaming giant says it is adding direct messages because “users have told us they want a dedicated space within the app to share songs, podcasts, or audiobooks they’re excited about with friends and family, and an easy way to keep track of recommendations.” Contents shared in direct messages are not restricted to songs and messages only; users will also be able to share podcasts and audiobooks with friends and family.
Spotify did not share if artists will be able to use the feature to chat with fans, but says the feature “opens up new opportunities for artists, authors, and creators—more users can spread the word about an artist’s track or creator’s podcast with their friends and family, helping drive discovery.” Just like on other social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, etc, messages on Spotify can be accepted or rejected. Once you accept a message request, you will be able to react with emojis, send texts, and share whatever content you want between users. Messages can be accessed when you open your profile in the top left corner.
Spotify says it will make recommendations for suggested users to message based on your previous interactions with Jams, Blends, or collaborative playlists together. People from Family or Duo plans will also be suggested to one another. “Messages on Spotify are designed to complement these integrations, not replace them, and we’re excited to continue offering more ways to drive hype for the Spotify content you love, wherever you are,” the company says.
Spotify says illegal and harmful content applies to direct messages and goes against its terms of use and platform rules. Users will have the option to report DMs that do not feel right to them.
Messages in Spotify is rolling out globally to all users on the mobile app. The company recently added new track mixing tools for playlists.
