Spotify, the renowned audio streaming service, has made a significant announcement today by officially launching support for music videos. Described as a “beta” feature, it currently offers a “limited catalog” of music videos from artists such as Ed Sheeran, Doja Cat, Ice Spice, Aluna, and Asake. However, Spotify’s global head of consumer experience, Sten Garmark, has assured that the platform’s full music video catalog will eventually include “thousands” of songs.
Accessing Music Videos
The music video feature can be accessed via the Now Playing screen on supported tracks. A “Switch to Video” icon will appear above the song title, allowing users to seamlessly transition from audio to video playback. Rotating your iOS or Android device enables fullscreen playback, while tapping “Switch to Audio” returns users to the traditional Now Playing interface.
Availability and Support
Currently, the music video feature is available in a select number of markets, including the UK, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Sweden, Brazil, Colombia, Philippines, Indonesia, and Kenya. Garmark explains that these markets were chosen based on factors such as market size and the availability of local content support.
In addition to iOS and Android devices, Spotify ensures compatibility with desktop and TV platforms. However, access to music videos requires a Premium subscription.
Enhancing Artist-Fan Engagement
While Spotify is primarily known for audio streaming, it has been expanding its support for various forms of video content, including podcasts and short vertical videos called Clips. With the introduction of music videos, Spotify aims to provide artists with another avenue to engage with their audience and cultivate a stronger fan base.
As the streaming landscape continues to evolve, Spotify’s integration of music videos represents a strategic move to enrich the user experience and solidify its position as a leading platform for both audio and visual content.
