Spotify adds direct messaging, letting users chat over Music and Podcasts

In a move that might surprise many, Spotify has introduced a new feature that allows users to send direct messages within the app. While Spotify is primarily known as a music and podcast streaming platform, it is now stepping into the world of social interaction, offering a way for listeners to share content and communicate with friends and family.

Spotify’s new Messages feature is designed to provide a dedicated space for users to exchange recommendations, whether it be a new song, a favorite podcast episode, or an audiobook. The company explained that users have long requested a way to share their favorite content directly within the app. With this update, Spotify aims to make those interactions seamless and personal, enabling users to spark conversations around the media they enjoy.

The practical applications of Messages range widely. A book club member might send a new audiobook recommendation to a friend, while someone bonding over music can instantly share a newly discovered track. Even sharing podcasts with family members becomes simpler, allowing discussions and reactions to flow naturally. Spotify emphasizes that these messages are meant to deepen engagement around the content people love, giving listeners a new way to connect over shared interests.

The rollout of Spotify Messages is currently limited to users on both Free and Premium plans in select markets, and there is an age restriction: users must be 16 or older. The feature is only available on mobile devices, reflecting Spotify’s focus on the smartphone experience where users are most likely to listen and interact simultaneously.

Sending a message on Spotify is straightforward. While listening to content, users can access the Now Playing view, tap the share icon, select a friend from their contacts, and send a message. Once a message request is accepted, both parties can freely share content, react with emojis, and exchange text messages. Conversations are visible by tapping the user’s profile photo in the top-left corner of the app, providing an organized view of all ongoing chats.

At this stage, Spotify supports only one-on-one messaging. The company is careful to note that all Messages are end-to-end encrypted, ensuring that user interactions remain private. Additionally, Spotify has implemented measures to prevent illegal or harmful content from spreading through the platform. This combination of privacy and safety is intended to create a secure environment for sharing recommendations, while still encouraging lively and engaging conversations.

Spotify’s foray into messaging represents a broader trend among digital platforms to integrate social features. By enabling direct messaging, Spotify is not just offering a way to share music, podcasts, and audiobooks, but is also creating a community-focused ecosystem within its app. This approach mirrors trends seen in other platforms, where users increasingly expect seamless communication alongside content consumption.

The introduction of Messages also reflects Spotify’s recognition of the social aspect of media discovery. Sharing a track, podcast, or audiobook recommendation can spark discussion, strengthen connections, and enhance the listening experience. By embedding these capabilities directly into the app, Spotify removes the friction of having to switch between platforms to discuss content, offering a more cohesive and integrated user experience.

While the feature is new and limited in scope, it may signal the beginning of further social expansions within Spotify. Users could potentially see group messaging, richer media reactions, or deeper integration with playlists and collaborative content in the future. For now, however, Spotify is focused on ensuring that Messages works smoothly, securely, and intuitively for users who want to share and discuss the content they love.