Spotify has begun testing a new feature that uses AI to generate personalized playlists based on short text prompts, the company confirmed this week. The feature, first spotted by TikTok users in recent days, allows Spotify users to type in a text description of the type of playlist they want, such as “motivational workout songs” or “chill study beats,” and Spotify’s AI will automatically generate a custom playlist fitting that description.
Discovery and Confirmation
The AI-powered playlist feature first came to light thanks to posts on TikTok and tweets from users who spotted the mysterious prompt-based playlist function. Many initially assumed it could be a test limited to certain users or markets. However, Spotify has now officially confirmed that they have begun testing this new AI feature internally and with select users globally.
While full public availability remains unclear, a Spotify spokesperson provided TechCrunch with the following statement:
“At Spotify, we routinely conduct a number of tests in an effort to improve our user experience. Some of those tests end up paving the path for our broader user experience and others serve only as an important learning. We have no further news to share at this time.”
How the AI Playlists Work
According to user reports and the confirmation from Spotify, the new AI playlist feature allows users to type in a text prompt to describe the type of playlist they want generated.
For example, users could type a short phrase like:
- “chill vibes”
- “pump up party”
- “focus study music”
- “dinner with friends”
Spotify’s AI will then instantly generate a custom playlist of tracks fitting the prompt.
Engadget shared screenshots of the feature in action:
Users can save these dynamically generated playlists or continue tweaking the prompt to get new suggestions.
What’s Next?
The discovery and confirmation that Spotify is testing AI-powered playlists has sparked excitement but also some concerns.
Many see the feature as a big step forward, leveraging AI to create an incredibly personalized music experience based on a user’s unique tastes and listening scenarios. Spotify’s huge existing catalog could combine with AI in innovative ways.
However, Spotify currently pays royalties based on factors like an artist’s share of total streams – which this AI feature could disrupt. Some also worry it could lead listeners into even more narrow niches rather than expanding their musical tastes.
For now, details remain limited while testing continues behind the scenes. But with music streaming more popular than ever, AI integration appears inevitable. AI-enhanced recommendations and playlists could very likely go mainstream on Spotify soon, for better or worse. The testing marks a pivotal moment for AI in music.
What Experts Are Saying
Industry analysts seem largely optimistic about the potential of AI playlists pending wider rollout.
| Publication | Excerpt |
|---|---|
| TechCrunch | “The ability to generate playlists simply by describing the desired mood, scenario or musical style could be a game-changing level of personalization.” |
| The Verge | “This could help foster music discovery in incredibly tailored ways – or further box users into very specific niches.” |
| Billboard | “Spotify has the scale and the hunger for innovation to potentially transform the space with this kind of AI.” |
Meanwhile, some artists have aired skepticism, wanting to ensure AI respects musicians and compensation structures:
“Hoping this doesn’t undermine artists. The last thing we need is even less transparency in how streams convert to dollars.” – Indie band BALM
What Users Are Saying
Early reaction on social media shows listeners intrigued but divided:
“This sounds amazing tbh. Like the ultimate personalized radio station vibes.”
“Idk if I’m comfortable letting an AI dictate what artists I get exposed to…”
“People acting like this is scary but isn’t all music discovery AI-based anyhow now with stuff like Discover Weekly?”
“If Spotify gets this right this could completely change how I find new music wow.”
So while the public remains split, one thing is clear: this test marks a major development in AI’s expanding role in the music streaming landscape – where Spotify leads, others may soon follow.
To err is human, but AI does it too. Whilst factual data is used in the production of these articles, the content is written entirely by AI. Double check any facts you intend to rely on with another source.
