Spotify’s latest update enhances the listening experience by providing free users with expanded access to song lyrics
Spotify has discovered a novel method of encouraging its free users to upgrade to a paid subscription: enclosing lyrics behind a paywall.
Despite the absence of a direct statement, the company is discreetly confirming the change in response to numerous reports that reference frustrated posts from users on Reddit.
Instead, the organization informed TechCrunch that Spotify’s capabilities may fluctuate over time, between markets, and across devices.
The response suggests that modifying the lyrics may be more than a mere experiment but that Spotify is not yet prepared to make an official announcement regarding the affected markets.
Nevertheless, there were some indications that Spotify was moving in this direction. The company was observed restricting lyrics for nonpaying users last autumn.
A message stating, “Enjoy lyrics on Spotify Premium,” would be displayed to free users who attempted to access the feature.
Nevertheless, a Spotify spokesperson clarified that the modifications were “only a test” conducted with restricted users in a “pair of markets.”
Spotify no longer refers to the changes as a test. However, it is unclear why the company would not document access to lyrics as a premium feature on its website, such as on the page where users can upgrade plans or in its helpful documentation.
This may be because the company is still testing the monthly limit on lyrics for free accounts. Free users have reported receiving notifications informing them that each time they select “Show lyrics,” it will be counted towards the new limit.
Spotify did not provide any additional information regarding the reason for its decision to paywall lyrics; however, it is evident that the move is intended to encourage more users to subscribe to its paid service.
The company exceeded expectations in its most recent quarter by surpassing 600 million monthly active users. Additionally, paid subscribers increased to 236 million, representing a 15% year-over-year increase.
At 3.67 billion euros ($3.94 billion), the quarterly revenue fell short of the analyst’s projection of 3.72 billion euros.
It is uncertain whether obstructing lyrics will encourage an increase in the number of subscribers. Lyrics are readily accessible and cost-free on the web and in other applications that integrate with Spotify, such as Genius, Apple’s Shazam, or Musixmatch.
