Spotify adds music videos to its service

Spotify announced today that it will now enable music videos. The audio streaming service characterizes the function as a "beta" with just a "limited catalog" accessible in 11 markets as of today. Spotify supports artists such as Ed Sheeran, Doja Cat, Ice Spice, Aluna, and Asake. The company's global president of consumer experience, Sten Garmark, has stated that the music video archive would ultimately feature "thousands" of songs.

On compatible songs, the music video feature may be accessed through the Now Playing screen, which displays a "Switch to Video" icon above the song title. Tapping it will resume the song and begin playing the music video in the center of the screen. Rotate an iOS or Android smartphone to play the music video fullscreen, then press "Switch to Audio" to return to the Now Playing UI.

The functionality is presently accessible in only a few areas, including the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Sweden, Brazil, Colombia, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Kenya. Garmark claims that these markets were selected "based on a number of criteria, including market size and the availability of local content support."

Spotify said the music video function is accessible on desktop and TV platforms in addition to iOS and Android. You will need a Premium membership to watch them.

Spotify has long promoted video content, including video podcasts and Clips, which allow artists to engage with their audience. Spotify says its new music video option is intended to provide musicians with another method to engage listeners and convert them into followers.