Spotify has announced a redesigned homescreen that aims to help users discover new content, including video podcasts and other forms of audio. The update features a feed that is more image-heavy and vertical-scrolling, which resembles the layout of social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok. The redesign comes as Spotify seeks to position itself as more than just a music app, with CEO Daniel Ek hoping to attract over 50 million “audio creators” to the platform. Spotify has invested heavily in podcasts, audiobooks, and live audio in recent years, and the redesign reflects the company’s broader ambitions.

Spotify

The homescreen update will showcase autoplaying video podcasts and large photos, providing more information about playlists and podcasts. The app’s top section will still feature album and playlist covers, but users can now tap on “Music” or “Podcasts & Shows” to access a vertically scrolling feed that resembles Instagram Stories, TikTok or YouTube Shorts. The new feature allows users to quickly preview songs and playlists without diving in fully, with each item autoplaying to provide a sense of what it is. The redesign also emphasizes getting users into new things, offering them more opportunities to discover new content.

Spotify’s new design reflects the company’s desire to be the leading audio platform, and the new personalized AI is another example of this ambition. The Smart Shuffle feature, which temporarily adds tracks to existing playlists, is designed to improve the “just for you playlist” idea that Spotify has been working on for years. Additionally, DJ, an AI that spins records and hosts personalized radio shows, is another step in Spotify’s quest to become the preferred audio platform.

Spotify’s redesign shows the company’s determination to be more than just a music app. The update aims to make the app more navigable and provide more opportunities for users to discover new content, including video podcasts and other forms of audio. The design reflects the company’s broader ambitions and desire to be at the forefront of music streaming, providing users with more personalized AI features to enhance their experience. 

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