Earlier this autumn, Spotify was identified as developing a novel feature that empowers users of its streaming app to craft playlists through the integration of AI technology and prompts. Presently, this “AI playlists” feature has been observed in action as part of a trial aimed at gauging user reactions to AI-driven playlist generation. The company acknowledged the trial to TechCrunch but refrained from divulging further details regarding the technology’s workings or providing a definitive launch timeline.
The feature made an appearance in a TikTok video by user @robdad_ who remarked, “I just stumbled upon Spotify’s ChatGPT?” According to the shared screenshots, the AI playlists feature is accessible from the “Your Library” tab in Spotify’s app by tapping the plus (+) button at the upper right corner of the screen. A pop-up menu emerges, revealing the AI playlist feature as a new option alongside the existing “Playlist” and “Blend” choices.
The feature’s description states, “Turn your ideas into playlists using AI,” specifying its current availability only in English.
Upon choosing the option, users encounter a screen where they can either input prompts into an AI chatbot-style box or peruse a list of suggested prompts to initiate the process. The video showcased prompt ideas such as “get focused at work with instrumental electronica,” “fill in the silence with background café music,” “get pumped up with fun, upbeat, and positive songs,” and “explore a niche genre like Witch House.”
The user opted for the last prompt, and the AI chatbot replied with “Processing your request…” followed by presenting a sample playlist. On this screen, users can swipe left to eliminate any unwanted songs to further refine the playlist.
In October, TechCrunch had reported the discovery of references to this AI feature in Spotify mobile by tech veteran Chris Messina, who shared screenshots of a feature generating “playlists based on your prompts.” At the time, Spotify refrained from confirming its plans for AI playlists, citing a policy of not commenting on speculative features.
While the company remains noncommittal about the official launch of AI playlists, Spotify has been actively investing in AI throughout its app. Earlier in the year, it introduced an AI DJ providing personalized playlists and commentary in an AI-generated voice based on Spotify’s head of cultural partnerships, Xavier ‘X’ Jernigan. Although the company emphasizes that the AI playlist feature is currently in the testing phase, Spotify continues to explore diverse applications of AI, from podcast summarization to AI-driven music creation and personalized advertising.
