TechPression

Tag: Spotify

  • Spotify to debut high-end Music Pro tier in 2025

    Spotify to debut high-end Music Pro tier in 2025

    After a four-year wait, Spotify is reportedly launching its high-fidelity (HiFi) audio streaming service, expected to be called “Music Pro,” in 2025. 

    According to a media report, the company is finalising details for the new premium offering, including streaming rights. The announcement was made on Tuesday.

    Read also: Spotify unveils Partner Program for creators to monetise content

    Music Pro Tier offers enhanced audio quality and exclusive features

    The Music Pro tier is expected to cost an additional $5 to $6 per month on top of the existing Spotify Premium subscription, which starts at $11.99 per month. In India, the HiFi add-on could be priced at around Rs 150, whereas Spotify Premium is Rs 119. 

    Unlike Apple Music, which includes lossless streaming in its standard plan, Spotify aims to justify the extra cost by offering additional perks. 

    These may include song remixing options and exclusive concert ticket sales, providing subscribers with special deals and early access. The tier will also offer “tools that let subscribers edit songs” as if they were a DJ, allowing users to speed up or mash up songs.

    Read also: Spotify users alarmed as pornographic content appear in search results

    Licensing deals boost Music Pro rollout

    Spotify has recently signed multi-year agreements with Warner Music Group and Universal Music Group, securing long-term streaming rights and paving the way for HiFi streaming. 

    Universal Music Group even hinted at introducing a “superfan” music service, offering priority access to exclusive content, early music releases, artist Q&As, and listening parties.

    According to unnamed “music executives,” there is a belief that “Spotify should cost the same as Netflix – close to $20 a month.” Daniel Ek, Spotify’s CEO, pledged to “double down on music in 2025.”

    Apple Music and Tidal offer high-fidelity, lossless streaming options, giving them an edge over Spotify, though Spotify remains the most popular streaming service.

    With these developments, Spotify Music Pro could bring a more immersive and high-quality experience for dedicated music fans. 

    The new plan will initially be basic and keep adding features over time. Spotify has secured rights for the new tier from Universal and Warner but not yet from Sony.

  • Spotify unveils Partner Program for creators to monetise content

    Spotify unveils Partner Program for creators to monetise content

    Spotify has officially launched its Partner Program today. The program aims to empower creators in the U.S., UK, Canada and Australia.

    This initiative allows creators to earn revenue based on engagement from paid subscribers, similar to YouTube‘s model.

    With over 640 million users and more than 250 million subscribers, Spotify aims to enhance its platform for creators while providing an enriched experience for users.

    Read also: Spotify users alarmed as pornographic content appear in search results

    Transforming monetisation for creators

    The Partner Program introduces a dual-revenue model, offering audience-driven payouts from video engagement and ad monetisation on Spotify Free.

    This flexibility enables creators to navigate industry changes better and maintain a steady income. Since its announcement on November 13, 2024, nearly 65 percent of eligible shows have enrolled, indicating strong interest among creators.

    Jim Harold of The Paranormal Podcast remarked, “The Partner Program allows us to expand into long-form video, giving our loyal audio listeners an enriched experience while attracting new viewers.”

    Zach Misischia of The Makeshift Podcast echoes this sentiment: “This program lets us monetise effectively without disrupting our listeners’ experience.”

    Read also: Spotify Premium prices rise in Kenya

    Enhancing user experience

    Spotify’s new features include Podcast Clips and short videos designed to promote shows and facilitate discovery.

    These clips have proven to be 33 per cent more effective than traditional previews in converting casual browsers into engaged listeners. With the absence of dynamic ads for Premium users during video playback, the viewing experience is significantly improved.

    Spotify’s founder, Daniel Ek, has emphasised the company’s commitment to supporting creators and enhancing user engagement.

    The Partner Program represents a strategic move to solidify Spotify’s position as a leader in the podcasting space while fostering a sustainable ecosystem for creators.

    As Spotify continues to innovate and expand its offerings, the Partner Program stands out as a promising avenue for creators looking to monetise their content effectively.

  • Spotify users alarmed as pornographic content appear in search results

    Spotify users alarmed as pornographic content appear in search results

    Spotify is currently experiencing a surge in user complaints due to reports that pornographic content has been appearing in search results.

    This issue came to light on December 28, 2024, when a Reddit user posted a screenshot showing explicit videos alongside searches for popular artistes like M.I.A. 

    Many users expressed shock and concern, mainly because they activated explicit content filters.

    Read also: Spotify criticises Apple for breaking volume controls on iOS

    Challenges in content filtering

    Despite Spotify’s strict policies against explicit content, this incident raises questions about the effectiveness of its moderation system. 

    Laura Batey, a representative from Spotify, confirmed that the inappropriate videos were removed because they violated the platform’s guidelines. 

    However, users continued to report problems with explicit material showing up in their feeds, including erotic audio tracks that appeared in personalised playlists.

    This is not the first time Spotify has faced challenges related to content moderation. 

    A Vice article from 2022 highlighted instances where explicit images were uploaded to the platform, leading to concerns about how well the system filters out inappropriate content. 

    Users have pointed out that reporting such issues can be cumbersome, making it harder to maintain a safe environment for everyone.

    Read also: Spotify Premium prices rise in Kenya

    The vision of the founder

    Spotify was co-founded by Daniel Ek and Martin Lorentzon in 2006 to provide a legal alternative to music piracy.

    Their vision was to change how people access and enjoy music while ensuring that artists receive fair compensation. 

    However, as Spotify continues to grow and evolve, it faces new challenges in managing user-generated content and maintaining a family-friendly atmosphere.

    The latest reports remind us of the balance that digital platforms must strike between allowing users to be creative and ensuring the safety of everyone.

    As Spotify works through these challenges, it must rethink its moderation strategies to prevent similar issues from arising.

    This situation highlights the importance of effective content management in today’s digital age. Users expect platforms like Spotify to provide great music and a safe listening experience. In the future, user trust and happiness will depend significantly on how the company handles this problem.

  • Excited song lovers eagerly await Spotify Wrapped 2024: Here’s what you should know

    Excited song lovers eagerly await Spotify Wrapped 2024: Here’s what you should know

    Spotify Wrapped 2024 is highly anticipated by users eager to discover their personalised listening statistics from the past year. The feature has yet to roll out as of yesterday, making this year’s release slightly later than previous editions

    Social media is abuzz with excitement as users express their anticipation, sharing comments and hints about what they hope to see in this year’s Wrapped.

    Read also: Spotify Premium prices rise in Kenya

    What is Spotify Wrapped?

    Spotify Wrapped is an annual feature that recaps users’ listening habits over the past year. It highlights the most streamed songs, artists, and genres, allowing fans to reflect on their musical preferences and share their results with friends. This engaging feature has become a cultural phenomenon, generating excitement among users as they look forward to discovering their top tracks and artists.

    Expected release date for Spotify Wrapped 2024

    While Spotify has not officially confirmed the exact release date for Wrapped 2024, many hints from the company suggest that it could drop soon. Historically, Wrapped has been released around the end of November or the beginning of December. For example, Wrapped 2023 was launched on November 29, while the 2022 edition debuted on November 30. Given this pattern, users are optimistic that Wrapped will be available Wednesday,  December 4.

    Read also: Ayra Starr surpasses 2 billion streams on Spotify

    How to prepare for Spotify Wrapped

    Ensure your app is updated to get the best experience when accessing your Spotify Wrapped 2024. Spotify released a statement on November 27, 2024, encouraging users to check for updates to avoid missing any features included in this year’s Wrapped package. All you need to access your Wrapped is a Spotify account and a few hours of listening to your favourite songs and podcasts.

    As anticipation builds for Spotify Wrapped 2024, users are encouraged to keep their apps updated and stay tuned for any announcements regarding the release date. With many expressing their eagerness on social media, it’s clear that Spotify Wrapped continues to be one of the most exciting events in the music calendar each year.

  • Ayra Starr surpasses 2 billion streams on Spotify 

    Ayra Starr surpasses 2 billion streams on Spotify 

    Grammy-nominated Afrobeats artiste Ayra Starr has surpassed 2 billion streams on Spotify, a song-streaming site.

    The surge in her streaming numbers is largely attributed to the success of her recent album, The Year I Turned 21, which has resonated with fans worldwide.

    Having 2 billion streams highlights her rapid rise in the music industry and solidifies her position as a leading figure in contemporary Afrobeats.

    Read also: Spotify criticises Apple for breaking volume controls on iOS

    Ayra Starr’s “The Year I Turned 21” drives her to 2 billion streams

    Released on May 30, 2024, Ayra Starr’s sophomore album has been a major contributor to her streaming success. The 15-track album showcases her global ambitions and explores diverse themes within the Nigerian pop soundscape. Hit singles like “Santa,” which alone has garnered over 455 million streams, have made this one of the most streamed albums by an African female artiste on Spotify, bringing Ayra Starr closer to the remarkable milestone of 2 billion streams.

    How streaming services powered Ayra Starr’s journey

    Listening has become incredibly fluid, primarily due to the emergence of streaming and a listener can access millions of tracks at once. To Ayra Starr, this refers to the fact that her buoyant vocal hooks and themes, which her listeners can easily relate to, can be heard by everyone across the world.. 

    Her first hit, “Away”, from her eponymous EP release, quickly rose through the charts and cemented her status in Afrobeats. Her songs come to different listeners daily due to Spotify’s playlists created through Space’s algorithm, such as Discover Weekly. Songs like “Rush,” which has become an anthem on these playlists and even bagged her a Grammy nomination, have helped push her streaming numbers even higher.

    Read also: Spotify Premium prices rise in Kenya

    The role of Instagram and Tik Tok in Sabi Girl’s music career

    Apart from streaming, Ayra Starr utilises Instagram and TikTok to relate to her fans and, in the process, enhance her streaming prowess. Initially, she gained fame through her witty rants, constantly posting colourful videos on social networks, performing dance challenges and documenting behind the scenes with her fans. 

    As with “Commas”, the main verse sampled in a TikTok trend, or even more striking, her music found its way to new listeners, directing them to her Spotify pages once again.

    2 billion streams is a big achievement in Ayra Starr’s music career. Despite being young in the music industry, she has achieved this feat through her album, The Year I Turned 21.

  • Spotify Premium prices rise in Kenya

    Spotify Premium prices rise in Kenya

    Spotify remains a significant music streaming provider in a world where streaming services are essential to daily enjoyment. 

    Spotify has raised Premium prices in various countries, including Kenya, to meet market needs. Nairobi users discuss the service’s worth and how the new fee compares.

    Read also: Spotify criticises Apple for breaking volume controls on iOS

    Updated Spotify premium rates for Kenya

    Spotify Premium now costs more in Kenya. Given the vast music catalogue, ad-free listening, and offline playback, many customers saw KES 299 monthly as a fair price. The new changes raise the individual plan price to KES 349 per month. It may appear trivial, but this 16% rise may affect long-time users who enjoyed the service at the former rate.

    The Family Plan now costs KES 529 a month for customers with up to six accounts, up from KES 479. The Duo Plan for two persons increased from KES 389 to KES 429. 

    Also, the Student Plan for recognised university students has increased from KES 149 to KES 169—Spotify’s first significant price modification in Kenya since its 2021 launch.

    Why did Spotify increase its subscription prices?

    Spotify has raised prices to “continue bringing new content and features” to the platform. The business says the price hike will fund its spending on exclusive podcasts, better playlists, and AI-powered personalised features. Like all streaming services, Spotify is experiencing growing music label and content producer license expenses.

    Spotify and other digital service providers have adjusted prices due to inflation and currency fluctuations. Spotify wants a sustainable plan to build its user base and improve its products by aligning its Kenyan costs with global standards.

    Read also: Exploring Spotify’s game-changing podcast comments

    Exploring Spotify premium’s affordability in Kenya

    Despite the price hike, Spotify Premium in Kenya is cheaper than in other countries. The individual plan costs USD 10.99 per month (KES 1,610) in the US and GBP 10.99 (KES 2,040) in the UK. Kenyan users pay far less for the same products and services, even with the new pricing.

    However, not all Kenyans will instantly accept the price increase. Due to its competitive pricing, some customers may consider switching to Spotify’s free edition, which permits music streaming but has advertisements and fewer Premium features.

    Kenyan Spotify users have expressed mixed reactions to a price increase for Premium, with some acknowledging the need for the adjustment but others concerned about affordability. The platform faces competition from Apple Music and Boomplay, who offer free and paid plans. While the price hike may seem steep to some, Spotify’s continued investment in features and content might justify the cost for regular users. Balancing affordability with innovation is crucial for Spotify to maintain its loyal user base in Kenya.

  • Spotify criticises Apple for breaking volume controls on iOS

    Spotify criticises Apple for breaking volume controls on iOS

    Spotify has raised concerns over what it describes as a significant issue with its app on iOS devices, claiming that Apple’s recent updates have disrupted some of the platform’s volume controls. This development has sparked a renewed debate over Apple’s control of its ecosystem, with Spotify urging Apple to address the problem swiftly.

    Spotify users demand solutions for volume issues 

    As reported by Spotify, the issue cropped up after the latest iOS updates, which seem to have disrupted all the volume controls in the App.

    There are issues with the volume adjustment controls, with some users complaining that controls no longer work or work improperly within the Spotify app. This has led to anger among Spotify app users since they depend on it for their music and podcast listening. 

    Read also: Exploring Spotify’s game-changing podcast comments

    The issue of volume control is most prominent when using Spotify with other external devices like Bluetooth speakers and headphones. Users have raised the issue that the volume levels sometimes fail to transition as they intend through the app, thereby creating a somewhat irregular listening experience.

    Spotify’s response and concerns

    Spotify has even openly named Apple as the culprit responsible for the volume control problem after getting iOS updates. Spotify has made this known on its community forums and social pages, indicating that it is pressuring Apple to develop a solution. 

    This has again created a rivalry between Spotify and Apple, as the two firms have conflicted about controlling the iOS platform. Spotify has in the past accused Apple of anti-competitive practices such as forceful adherence to Apple’s in-app payment system and charging Apple a 30% commission for particular in-app purchases. This adds to issues of volume control, which has remained another friction between Spotify and Apple, with the latter being accused of compromising on the experiences offered to Spotify clients. 

    It has also revived issues related to Apple’s tight control over its realm of operation. Apple has always kept a tight rein on how applications work on devices through updates and modifications to its operating systems. Although these updates are beneficial in providing new updates and improvements, they may also lead to several compatibility problems for third-party applications like Spotify. 

    As with most of Apple’s products, this situation raises questions about developers’ challenges when working in a strict environment. Updates to iOS can cause problems in applications that need to be launched, and it becomes a waiting game for Apple to respond to these problems. 

    Read also: Apple modifies its App Store

    Apple’s silence on spotify’s statement explained 

    For now, Apple has not spoken regarding Spotify’s statements, and there is no information on when the problem could be solved. Meanwhile, Spotify listeners are forced to live with problematic issues such as non-functional volume buttons. 

    The ongoing dispute between Spotify and Apple highlights the broader challenges of app development within a controlled ecosystem. As users and developers await a resolution, the incident reminds us of the complexities of maintaining app functionality on ever-evolving platforms like iOS.

    Spotify’s recent troubles with Apple over broken volume controls on iOS devices have reignited concerns about Apple’s dominance over its ecosystem. As Spotify pushes for a swift resolution, this incident reminds us of developers’ ongoing challenges in ensuring app compatibility within Apple’s tightly controlled environment. Both users and the broader tech community will closely watch the resolution of this issue.

  • Music startups in Africa with over $100K in funding

    Music startups in Africa with over $100K in funding

    Africa’s music industry is booming, propelled by a dynamic, tech-savvy youth and soaring global appeal. The continent’s music scene captures hearts and ears worldwide with innovative technology and vibrant talent.

    Digital music platforms like Boomplay, Deezer, Spotify, and Apple Music have transformed Africa’s music industry, expanding access to African music globally. They’ve bridged the geographical gap, allowing African artists to reach a vast audience and enabling music lovers to access a vast library of African music like Afrobeat, Juju and Highlife.

    This has led to unprecedented global recognition, lucrative artist revenue streams, and a vibrant music ecosystem. Digital music platforms have significantly contributed to Africa’s creative industries by promoting cultural exchange and economic growth.

    Read also: Top 4 wireless headphones to buy in 2024

    Exploring Africa’s Vibrant Online Music Scene

    Due to the growing adoption of mobile technologies and the increasing penetration of the internet, more Africans are able to stream music online and interact with a larger music community.

    Also, the global recognition of African musical talent has been remarkable, and 2023 will continue this trend. Africa’s annual music streaming revenues are expected to increase from $92.9 million in 2021 to $314.6 million by 2026.

    According to PricewaterhouseCoopers’ report, music streaming will grow significantly across major markets such as South Africa, Kenya, and Nigeria. South Africa’s streaming subscription revenue is anticipated to grow at a 10.5% compound annual growth rate, reaching R1.1 billion ($58.5 million) by 2027.
    The growth of creative innovators using technology to revolutionise music consumption and accessibility throughout the African continent has been driven by this anticipated increase.

    The Rise of Music Startups in Africa

    Below is a list of some of Africa’s high-potential music startups that have successfully raised over $100,000 in funding or partnered with top music companies worth millions.

    Anghami

    Anghami is a music streaming platform available in Europe and the USA. Across the Middle East and North Africa, over 70 million people have access to over 57 million Arabic and international songs and podcasts.

    Anghami, co-founded by Elie Habib and Eddy Maroun, was launched in Beirut in 2012 and relocated to Abu Dhabi in 2021. It raised $63.6 million in its latest round, supported by venture capital firms and strategic investors.

    Boomplay

    Boomplay, formerly known as Boomplay Music, is a media streaming and download service that Transnet Music Limited created with an emphasis on Africa.

    Nigerian music streaming platform Boomplay raised $25.5 million in two rounds, including a Series A in 2019, to support expansion, content acquisition, product optimisation, recruitment, and strengthening Africa’s leading music streaming service.

    Read also: Exploring the Power of iPad Pro M4

    Mdundo

    The Pan-African music streaming and download platform Mdundo has raised over $7.1 million in seven fundraising rounds, the most recent being an equity crowdfunding round.

    Mdundo, a platform providing free access to African songs, raised $6.4 million in an IPO in 2020. It attracted 3,000 investors and served over 5 million users in 15 Sub-Saharan African countries.

    Ayoken

    Ayoken, founded by Joshua King in 2021, is the first platform to buy exclusive digital collectables and social tokens from musicians, sports brands, creatives, and influencers from Africa and the global diaspora.

    The round saw key investors like Founders Factory Africa, Kon Ventures, Crypto League, R9C Ventures, and Maximus Ventures invest in Ayoken, a startup with no recent updates on its growth.

    Groove Platforms

    Groove Platforms, an African technology company, is transforming the music service value chain to lead Africa into a new era of global competition.
    Through innovative technology and strategic partnerships, Groove Platforms empowers artists, enhances fan engagement, and drives industry growth through the uduX Livestream Concert Platform, PopRev, and uduX Music App.

  • Exploring Spotify’s game-changing podcast comments

    Exploring Spotify’s game-changing podcast comments

    Spotify, the leading audio streaming service, has recently released a new function that allows users to leave notes on podcast episodes. This activity aims to improve the interactive experience for podcast creators and their audiences.

    Including comments on Spotify podcasts is a significant boost to audio content. It allows audiences to communicate directly with the artists they admire, offering comments, ideas, and criticism.

    Spotify’s most recent addition will change how artists and listeners connect as the podcast industry grows, enhancing engagement and reinforcing the sense of community inside the ecosystem.

    Read also: Burna Boy sets African Spotify streaming record with “Higher” single

    Empowering podcast creators

    Spotify’s new comments function benefits podcast producers by giving them more control over their content and the ability to create close relationships with their audience. If authors choose not to handle comments, they can turn off the option or activate it for specific episodes.

    The updated Spotify for Podcasters service enables all producers to monitor comments on any hosting provider they choose. Non-hosted creators must first claim their programming using the app to use this feature. In addition to setting comment visibility, creators will receive show milestones and notifications for new comments. The programme also provides data and audience analysis, allowing authors to understand their audience better and tailor their content.

    Read also: Spotify follows Meta, YouTube and others by offering AUX to artists

    Engaging with Spotify podcast comments

    The addition of comments to Spotify podcasts benefits both authors and listeners. It allows listeners to interact individually with what they consume and share their thoughts and comments with the author and other listeners.

    According to their research, Spotify users who use interactive tools like Q&As and polls are much more likely to return to a show within 30 days and spend more time listening to podcasts. Comments enable listeners to anticipate an even more immersive and intriguing experience, increasing their sense of connection and belonging to the podcast ecosystem.

    Spotify’s integration of episode comments transforms the podcast industry. It enables artists to improve users’ listening experiences and build stronger ties with their audiences. Spotify is committed to driving the expansion and transformation of the podcast industry as the platform continues to innovate and add new features.

    Podcast makers wishing to embrace this new tool and increase audience contact must claim their episodes using the Spotify for Podcasters app and investigate several ways to manage comments. By using this new media and interacting with their audience, creators can fully use their podcasts and build a devoted following that transcends the audio content.

  • Burna Boy sets African Spotify streaming record with “Higher” single

    Burna Boy sets African Spotify streaming record with “Higher” single

    Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Burna Boy has once more created music industry history. His most recent hit, “Higher,” set a new record for a solo African song’s most Spotify streams in a single day.

    Burna Boy’s reputation as one of the most successful Afrobeats musicians in recent times has been confirmed by the song’s outstanding start on Spotify Nigeria, which attracted over 1.31 million streams on June 28, 2024. This success underlines the worldwide appeal of Afrobeats music and adds to Burna Boy’s impressive honours resume.

    Read also: Spotify makes music videos available in Kenya, others

    Burna Boy’s dominance on streaming

    Besides breaking a new record, Burna Boy’s “Higher” has topped his best. The song’s popularity on Spotify Nigeria is evidence of Burna Boy’s capacity to create successful singles appealing to his followers regularly.

    Given the cutthroat character of the music business, “Higher’s record-breaking debut is especially remarkable. Burna Boy’s ability to stand out among his contemporaries is evidence of his talent and the calibre of his songs.

    The song’s outstanding Spotify Nigerian streaming figures confirm Burna Boy’s reputation as one of the most influential players in the Afrobeats scene.

    The popularity Burna Boy has on streaming goes beyond his most recent track. With around 200 million plays on Spotify, the 2019 African Giant album by the singer is the most streamed African album there. Burna Boy’s accomplishments make him the first African artist to cross this mark, strengthening his global superstar reputation.

    Burna Boy’s impact on the music industry

    Burna Boy’s success transcends his songs. Thanks to the artist, Afrobeat music has been promoted worldwide. His successes have motivated other musicians to follow in his footsteps and increased the profile of African music.

    Read also: Spotify follows Meta, YouTube and others by offering AUX to artists

    Burna Boy has influenced the music business, not just in Afrobeats. The performers have also worked with foreign musicians, increasing the audience for African music. Through these partnerships, Afrobeats have been brought to fresh audiences, and barriers have been broken.

    Besides his musical success, Burna Boy has used his stage to support political and social transformation. Using his songs and voice to spread awareness and motivate action, the singer has been candid about problems, including police brutality and corruption in Nigeria.

    Burna Boy’s record-breaking ” Higher ” performance is evidence of his skill and the rising appeal of Afrobeat’s music overall. Afrobeats are a force to be reckoned with internationally as musicians keep causing waves in the business.