Spotify is considering a significant shift in its approach by reserving the lyrics feature exclusively for premium subscribers. This move is part of Spotify’s broader strategy to allure more users into embracing their premium service.
Numerous reports have surfaced, indicating that non-premium users are now encountering a locked lyrics feature on the platform, accompanied by a message that reads, “Enjoy lyrics on Spotify Premium,” effectively restricting this feature to premium subscribers.
Spotify has confirmed these developments to The Verge. However, they are quick to clarify that this alteration is currently in a “test” phase, affecting only a limited number of users in select regions. Whether or not this change becomes a permanent fixture within Spotify’s offerings will depend on the feedback and reception it garners from its user base.
Recent data from Spotify’s second-quarter report for 2023 reveals noteworthy trends in the platform’s user demographics. While there has been a substantial increase in premium subscribers, the majority of Spotify’s user base still comprises free users.
The number of ad-supported free users has surged by an impressive 34 percent compared to the previous year, reaching a total of 343 million users. In contrast, premium subscribers have also grown by 17 percent, totaling 220 million users. This disparity in user numbers underscores the challenges Spotify faces in striking the right balance between its free and premium offerings.
