Spotify is now showing music videos to premium subscribers

Music lovers, get ready to elevate your streaming experience! Spotify, the ubiquitous music streaming giant, has just introduced a game-changing feature: music videos. In a move that could disrupt the online video landscape, Spotify is testing out music videos for premium users in select territories. This beta launch marks a significant step for Spotify, potentially shaking things up in the music video realm, where YouTube has reigned supreme for nearly two decades.

In Short

• Spotify launches a new music video feature, challenging YouTube’s dominance.
• The feature is in beta and available to premium users in select countries.
• Spotify aims to enhance user experience and expand its market reach.

Spotify’s New Music Video Feature

Spotify is testing new features, offering them to premium users in select countries. You can seamlessly switch between listening and watching on mobile and desktop, with an ad-free experience. This beta launch challenges YouTube’s dominance and hints at a future with more integrated music streaming experiences.

How Does Spotify’s Music Video Feature Work?

Spotify’s foray into music videos offers a user-friendly experience designed to integrate your existing listening habits seamlessly. Here’s how it works:

• Premium Access: Currently, the music video feature is exclusive to Spotify Premium subscribers in select countries.
• Seamless Switching: While listening to a song, a “Switch to Video” button appears on the Now Playing screen for compatible tracks. Clicking this button instantly transitions you from audio-only mode to watching the music video.
• Optimized Viewing: Just like on YouTube, Spotify’s music videos adapt to your viewing preference. Switch your phone to landscape mode for a full-screen video experience, or keep it in portrait mode for a more compact view. Tapping the “Switch to Audio” button takes you back to the song without the video.

How to Watch Music Videos on Spotify? 

Step 1: Upgrade to Spotify Premium

This feature is currently exclusive to premium subscribers.

Step 2: Check Availability

Music videos are in beta testing, so they might not be available in your region yet.

Step 3: Find a Song with a Video

Look for the “Switch to Video” button on the Now Playing screen when playing a song. Not all songs will have this option.

Step 4: Click “Switch to Video”

This will start playing the music video from the beginning of the song.

Step 5: Switch Back to Audio

Tap “Switch to Audio” to return to just listening to the song.

This feature is currently in beta testing and may not be available in all regions.

What Music Videos Are Available on Spotify?

While Spotify boasts a vast music library, its music video selection is in its early stages during the beta phase. The company is starting with a curated collection of thousands of music videos, encompassing a wide range of genres and artists across the launch markets. Spotify emphasizes that it has directly acquired the rights to these videos, ensuring an ad-free viewing experience for premium users.

Featured Artists

Spotify is starting with a smaller catalog of artists for music videos. Some of the artists included are Ed Sheeran, Doja Cat, Ice Spice, Taylor Swift, Beyonce, SZA, Olivia Rodrigo, Jack Harlow, and Tate McRae1.

More artists may be added over time as the feature expands.

Is Spotify Replacing YouTube?

While Spotify’s music video feature is undoubtedly a step towards a more comprehensive music experience, it’s unlikely to completely replace YouTube in this domain. Here’s why:

• Limited Library: During the beta phase, Spotify’s music video selection is a curated subset compared to YouTube’s vast collection. It might take a considerable time for Spotify to build a library that rivals YouTube’s sheer volume of content.
• User-Generated Content: A significant portion of YouTube’s music video appeal lies in user-uploaded content, remixes, and music video reactions. This kind of content creation isn’t currently part of Spotify’s offering.

Impact On YouTube

YouTube has long been the go-to platform for music videos, offering a seemingly limitless library of user-uploaded content alongside official artist channels. However, Spotify’s entry into this space presents a unique challenge. Here’s why:

• Targeted User Base: Spotify caters specifically to music listeners, offering a curated music experience. This focus might attract users who primarily use YouTube for music videos and prefer a more streamlined platform without the distraction of non-music content.
• Ad-Free Viewing: For premium Spotify users, music videos are entirely ad-free, unlike the ad-supported experience on the free tier of YouTube. This could be a significant advantage for users who value uninterrupted viewing.

Difference between Spotify and YouTube

While Spotify’s entry into music videos shakes things up, both platforms offer distinct advantages: