Starting today, Spotify has launched its Partner Program in the U.S., U.K., Canada, and Australia, allowing creators to earn based on engagement from paid subscribers, similar to models used by YouTube. Since its announcement last month, nearly 60 percent of eligible shows and networks have enrolled in the program.

Spotify launches Partner Program for creators in key markets

With over 640 million users and more than 250 million subscribers, Spotify aims to continuously build new offerings for creators to grow their audiences and monetize content. The new program provides eligible creators access to multiple revenue streams, including audience-driven payouts from Spotify Premium video engagement and opportunities to monetize through ads in Spotify Free and across all other podcast platforms.

This approach allows creators to have increased control and flexibility in their monetization strategies, enabling them to better navigate industry changes and maintain steady revenue. Users benefit from an enhanced viewing experience and a larger catalog of video podcasts, with Premium users enjoying uninterrupted content, as traditional dynamic ads will not interrupt the video playback.

Since the announcement of the Spotify Partner Program on November 13, there has been a strong creator response, with nearly 60% of eligible shows and networks participating. This interest is further bolstered by the increasing popularity of video content on the platform.

Spotify continues to invest in improving the viewing experience for users while allowing creators to use video for greater discovery. Podcast clips, introduced at the Now Playing event, are short-form videos recommended across Spotify’s surfaces, facilitating the discovery of new shows. Data indicates that these clips are 33% more effective than previews in converting users into engaged listeners.

Featured image credit: Spotify

Spotify has officially discontinued its Car Thing device, which allowed users to control music while driving. The announcement came on December 9, 2024, and owners have until January 14, 2025, to contact Spotify for refunds. The decision follows an earlier announcement in May about the product’s shutdown, which stems from poor demand and ongoing supply chain issues. While the device will no longer function with the Spotify streaming service, some users are reportedly finding innovative ways to repurpose the hardware.

Spotify discontinues Car Thing device, offers refunds until January

The Car Thing, introduced in April 2021 at a price point of $90, aimed to provide a simplified way to access Spotify in vehicles lacking modern infotainment systems. However, after only five months on the market, Spotify ceased production due to low sales figures. Customers who activate their devices now encounter a shutdown message stating:

“Car Thing is discontinued and no longer operational. Thank you for being on this journey with us, safe travels. For more information, visit carthing.com. Contact customer service by no later than January 14th, 2025 to discuss your refund options.”

Spotify has directed customers to contact its support team for refund options, requiring proof of purchase to facilitate the process. Many users are now facing the reality that the Car Thing has become another piece of e-waste, as Spotify recommends resetting the device to factory settings and disposing of it in accordance with local electronic waste guidelines.

Despite its demise, some enthusiasts are exploring alternative uses for the Car Thing’s hardware. Reports indicate that users have been able to hack the device to run custom software independent of Spotify’s infrastructure. Although Car Thing lacks the processing power to run a full Android operating system, projects like “Desk Thing” illustrate potential repurposing as a controller for desktop setups.

As of now, the Car Thing’s legacy remains mixed. While it aimed to simplify the listening experience for Spotify users on the road, it could not sustain itself in a competitive market dominated by advanced vehicle tech trends. Spotify’s focus on streamlining its product offerings appears to have contributed to the decision to discontinue the Car Thing.

Customer experiences and reactions

Users have expressed disappointment over the Car Thing’s shutdown, as many found it a useful companion during drives. Some have taken to online forums, such as subreddit discussions, to air their grievances. Enthusiasts shared memories and tips for the device, even as they prepared for its end-of-life status. It remains unclear what final reception the device will garner among its remaining users.

Although Spotify has indicated its plans to phase out the product, details regarding the refund process have raised questions about its execution. Users need clarity on terms like documentation requirements and the expected timeline for receiving compensation, with many anxious to secure their refunds before the January deadline.

Spotify’s customer service response will likely set a precedent for how the company handles similar product discontinuations in the future. Spotify’s prior announcements concerning the refund process and device sunset hints at an evolving strategy around customer communication and product lifecycle management.

Featured image credit: Spotify

December is here, and that means it’s time for Spotify Wrapped—the one true holiday season that music lovers look forward to all year long. With 2024 Wrapped, Spotify continues to turn a simple yearly summary into a full-blown cultural phenomenon, with a fresh dose of innovation, introspection, and a sprinkle of artificial intelligence.

Spotify Wrapped 2024 is here

This year, Spotify has taken Wrapped to new heights, offering a suite of features designed to make your musical year-in-review more personal, more social, and a whole lot more fun.

What makes Spotify Wrapped so addictive?

There’s an undeniable joy that comes from reminiscing about what made up the soundtrack of your year—those songs that captured your best days, those podcasts that got you through commutes, and those late-night playlists that set the mood. 2024 Wrapped is all about celebrating not just the music itself but also the journey you took with it. This year, Spotify celebrates fans, artists, and creators with a richer, more immersive Wrapped that turns each listener’s audio journey into a uniquely tailored storytelling experience.

This year, Spotify has amped up its Wrapped experience, adding several layers of personalization that elevate the fun of looking back on your listening habits. If you’ve been waiting to see how your taste evolved throughout the year, who you listened to the most, and how much time you spent exploring new sounds, you’re in for a treat.

Musical phases and the evolution of your taste

New to Wrapped this year is the “Your Music Evolution” feature, which takes your listening habits to another level. We know your taste changes—sometimes it’s a steady drift toward new genres, and other times it’s an abrupt shift that changes everything (maybe Taylor Swift’s surprise tour announcement made you fall down a folk-pop rabbit hole?). This evolution of taste is something Spotify wanted to celebrate, and now it’s delivered in the form of “Your Music Evolution”—a new storytelling element that maps out your musical journey across 2024.

Your “Music Evolution” feature delivers up to three musical phases that defined your year, complete with descriptors, genres, and artists that signpost your evolving moods. Alongside this, your “Music Evolution Playlist” bundles these phases into a soundtrack that’s all yours—with old favorites and new discoveries mixed into one cohesive story.

Wrapped gets visual: Music videos and artist clips

Another first for Wrapped: Premium listeners in selected markets can enjoy a personalized playlist featuring music videos—a fresh way to reconnect with the songs that soundtracked your 2024. It’s a cool opportunity to re-experience the music that mattered with visuals that enhance the emotional impact.

The experience also goes deeper with “Your Artist Clips,” where fans get to hear from their favorite artists directly. It’s a sweet touch that bridges the gap between listeners and their idols. Imagine Billie Eilish or Peso Pluma speaking directly to you, adding a personal touch to the soundtrack of your year.

The AI magic in Wrapped: Personalized podcasts and DJ commentary

Wrapped 2024 goes beyond playlists and stats—it also brings AI into the fold to enrich your experience. For the first time, Spotify offers an AI-generated podcast summarizing your Wrapped in audio form. Created in collaboration with Google’s NotebookLM, this podcast features two AI hosts, providing commentary on your top songs, artists, and genres of the year. It’s available to both Free and Premium users in English-speaking regions, giving a spoken-word twist to the music and artists that defined your 2024.

Spotify’s fan-favorite AI DJ also steps into the Wrapped spotlight. This AI DJ, available in both English and Spanish, curates a blend of music and editorial insight that highlights your journey. Imagine a DJ who knows exactly what you like, giving context to your top tracks, talking about the cultural moments that shaped them, and even describing the arc of your listening year with expert flair.

Get creative with AI playlists

One of the biggest changes to Wrapped this year is the introduction of AI Playlist prompts. This new feature lets you take your Wrapped insights to the next level by creating personalized playlists based on prompts like “my top 5 genres” or “artists similar to my top 5.” It’s an incredible way to push beyond what you already love and explore more—whether it’s finding new music that aligns with your core tastes or diving into something different.

Wrapped: A social event

Spotify knows the thrill of seeing how your musical habits stack up against friends, so they’ve made sharing even more fun. This year, when you share music or podcast links, Spotify will show how it ranks in your listening stats—for instance, if a song you’re sharing made your top 100 songs, top 20 artists, or top five podcasts.

This level of insight adds extra flavor to the share—like saying, “Hey, this song was one of my top listens this year.” Plus, thanks to Spotify’s new sharing integration with TikTok, you can now post your Wrapped results directly to TikTok’s feed. This means your love for “Crime Junkie” or ROSÉ’s latest hit can shine on TikTok’s For You Page and Stories, making Wrapped a more interactive experience than ever.

Wrapped for creators, advertisers, and even authors

This year, Spotify has rolled out personalized Wrapped microsite experiences for artists, songwriters, podcast creators, advertisers, and, for the first time, authors. Wrapped gives creators access to their own individualized analytics, showing them how fans have engaged with their work across 2024. For artists, it’s a chance to understand their fanbase better and to share in the joy of seeing how their music has resonated globally.

Voice-enabled wrapped: The smart speaker experience

If you have a smart speaker, simply use a voice command like “Play top songs 2024” to immerse yourself in your Wrapped experience. It’s the kind of accessibility that makes Wrapped even more engaging—the ability to revisit your favorite music without lifting a finger.

Let the Wrapped magic begin

Spotify Wrapped has always been more than just a collection of stats. It’s about memories, moments, and the unique power of music to capture how we feel at different times of our lives. Wrapped 2024 takes this idea and expands it—not only giving you a snapshot of your year but also adding depth through artist clips, AI-generated commentary, and insights into how your tastes evolved.

The evolution of Spotify Wrapped from a simple recap to a full-fledged experience speaks volumes about what listeners crave. It’s not just the numbers—it’s the context, the nostalgia, the story behind the music. We all love to see that we were among the top 1% of listeners for our favorite artists, but Wrapped also gives us something more—a narrative that turns data into a story. Wrapped 2024 is about turning listening habits into something meaningful, reminding us why we fell in love with certain songs, artists, or genres at different points in the year.

So, as you dive into your Wrapped, take a moment to appreciate how this year’s soundscape unfolded for you. Was there an album that perfectly captured your summer road trip? Was there a podcast that kept you sane on tough days? Music is personal, and Wrapped 2024 ensures that the way you experienced it is uniquely celebrated.

And if you love what you see, don’t forget to share it. Whether it’s with a friend who shares your taste or just to show off that rare 0.1% badge, Spotify Wrapped is best enjoyed when it’s shared. Because at its core, Wrapped is a celebration of our love for music—and that’s something we’re all in together.

2024 was a year full of surprises, genre-hopping, and finding new sounds. Spotify Wrapped 2024 encapsulates all that—with more personalization, more connection, and a lot of fun features that elevate our year-end listening. Dive into your Wrapped and experience what made 2024 your year in music. Celebrate the artists, albums, and songs that were there with you every step of the way, and see just how your story—in playlists, podcasts, and more—played out. And as you post it across your social feeds, remember, it’s all about celebrating the music that moved us, made us think, and maybe even defined us.

Happy Wrapped season—here’s to the music that shaped our 2024.

Image credits: Spotify 

Google’s Gemini AI now integrates with Spotify, enabling users to manage music through voice commands, according to a 9to5Google report. This feature, introduced on November 27, 2024, allows users to control playback of songs, albums, and playlists, enhancing the AI’s utility. The integration supports the English language and requires a Spotify Premium subscription for specific song access.

Google’s Gemini AI integrates with Spotify for voice control

Gemini offers users the ability to request music by song title, artist name, album name, and playlist name. However, it does not support playlist or radio station creation. Notably, if users have connected other music services like YouTube Music, they must specify which service to use, as Gemini defaults to the most recently used option. This capability aligns with Google’s broader strategy to connect various applications to Gemini, following the addition of other services such as WhatsApp, Google Home, Phone, and Messages.

Google emphasizes that the Gemini AI will access personal information from linked services only with explicit user consent. Any data shared during interactions adheres to the privacy policies of the respective services. Users must also link their Spotify and Google accounts to activate Gemini’s features and enable Gemini Apps Activity, which retains user queries for a maximum of 72 hours, Google says.

Previous enhancements included Workspace compatibility and other app integrations, positioning Gemini as a more versatile assistant compared to its predecessor, Google Assistant. While Google’s older Assistant has controlled multiple apps, Gemini’s advanced conversational abilities elevate user interaction, moving towards what experts call “agentic AI”—capable not only of understanding requests but also executing commands through various applications.

Salesforce CEO’s big praise for Google Gemini Live

Industry sources indicate that Google is working on an even more sophisticated AI assistant, codenamed “Jarvis,” which aims to streamline user interface control and reduce reliance on specialized integrations. This new system reflects a broader ambition to enhance AI capabilities, making them more practical for everyday tasks and communication.

As Spotify becomes the second non-Google application to receive Gemini capabilities, following WhatsApp’s introduction, the company’s effort to create an interconnected AI ecosystem appears to be progressing steadily. This integration represents a critical step in enhancing user experience and interaction with technology through AI advancements.

Featured image credit: Spotify

Spotify is shifting focus from music to video content, revealing extensive changes for creators while leaving its long-awaited Hi-Fi music tier in limbo. The streaming giant plans to debut ad-free video podcasts in January 2025, enhancing its video offerings and monetization capabilities.

Meanwhile, financial reports indicate that Spotify’s growth strategy prioritizes podcasts as a primary revenue source over high-fidelity music streaming.

Spotify prioritizes video podcasts over music quality

In a recent earnings call, Spotify CEO Daniel Ek addressed the long-deferred Hi-Fi tier initially promised in 2017, acknowledging ongoing work but refraining from providing a specific timeline for its release. With Spotify depreciating its focus on improving sound quality, the company’s strategy leans heavily towards expanding video content. This includes launching ad-free video podcasts in January 2025, a move aimed at enhancing audience engagement. Spotify has amassed over 300,000 video podcast shows on its platform, underscoring its commitment to this format.

Spotify’s financial health appears robust; its latest report revealed a 21% increase in total revenue and a premium revenue rise by 24%. With monthly active users increasing and its profit margins reaching a record 31.1%, Spotify’s financial success diminishes the urgency to launch a Hi-Fi music service.

Ek suggests that instead of enhancing sound quality, Spotify’s attention is dedicated to cultivating podcast engagement as a significant growth driver. A former music business expert summed this sentiment concisely, indicating that music companies—Spotify included—tend to chase revenue over artistry, with Ek’s net worth of $6.9 billion eclipsing that of renowned musicians like Jay-Z and Taylor Swift. The disparity emphasizes Spotify’s evolving relationship with music, seemingly prioritizing user numbers and financial growth over artistic fidelity.

The launch of Spotify for Creators

At the recent “Now Playing” event in Los Angeles, Spotify introduced its new platform, Spotify for Creators. This all-in-one podcast hosting and analytics service aims to streamline users’ content management experience while offers essential tools for video integration. The upgraded mobile app includes analytics, enhanced monetization options, and features to boost creator-fan interactivity. The event, boasting significant attendance and participation from prominent creators, marked a substantial pivot towards video, reinforcing Spotify’s intention to grow its video presence.

The upcoming launch of uninterrupted video podcasts for Spotify Premium subscribers presents a fresh revenue opportunity for creators. Starting in January, eligible creators can earn revenue from video consumption among these subscribers, bolstering their monetization avenues. Ek emphasized that this new program would provide creators flexibility and financial benefits as viewer interest in video content grows—64% of listeners in 2024 expressed a preference for video podcasts, up from 43% in 2021.

Ek’s assertions included statistics revealing that more than 250 million users have engaged with video podcasts on the platform. He acknowledged the challenge posed by third-party ads in video content, affirming Spotify’s commitment to delivering a superior ad-free viewer experience. This aligns with user preferences while positioning Spotify to harness the benefits of video content alongside its traditional audio offerings.

As Spotify moves ahead with its strategies, the emphasis is increasingly on video engagement rather than the anticipated Hi-Fi audio experience. While the company continues to evolve its podcast portfolio, the anticipated luxuries of high-definition music remain unfulfilled, suggesting that Spotify’s trajectory may favor audience growth and monetization through video over traditional music quality enhancements.

Image credits: Spotify

Spotify has reported impressive growth in its latest earnings, boasting 252 million premium subscribers and a steady path towards operating income profitability. The company’s active user base reached 640 million monthly users, marking an 11 percent increase year-over-year.

Strong earnings and subscriber growth

For the third quarter, Spotify’s total revenue surged 19 percent to €4 billion, aligning with its expectations. The company achieved an operating income of €454 million, fueled by enhanced gross margins and reduced personnel-related expenses. This marked a record high for Spotify, highlighting its operational efficiency and revenue-generating capabilities. However, the operating income was influenced by a €54 million social charge accrual, surpassing forecasts due to employee share price appreciation during the quarter.

Premium subscription revenue saw a notable rise of 21 percent, driven largely by increases in average revenue per user (ARPU) and subscriber growth. Changes in pricing for premium accounts, which began in June, contributed to this upward trend. Meanwhile, ad-supported revenue experienced a modest 6 percent increase year-over-year, despite challenges in the advertising environment, particularly within music and podcasting sectors.

Spotify’s global workforce at the end of Q3 numbered 7,242 full-time employees, indicating the company’s dedication to maintaining a robust operational team. “We’ve never been in a stronger position, thanks to the outstanding execution by our team. I’m incredibly proud of the way we’ve delivered and the progress we’ve made,” said Daniel Ek, Spotify’s Founder and CEO. He expressed optimism for the future, emphasizing Spotify’s commitment to innovation and user experience.

Future plans and product expansion

Ek teased the introduction of a “super premium” tier aimed at superfans, offering enhanced sound quality and additional features. This comes after years of speculation since Spotify first announced a HiFi tier in 2021. The anticipated subscription could be priced around $17 to $18 per month, roughly $5 more than the current premium offering. With competitors like Apple Music and Amazon Music already providing lossless audio streaming, the excitement around this new tier could further enhance Spotify’s market position.

Furthermore, the streaming giant is planning to host a creator-oriented video event in Los Angeles, expected to unveil new product offerings designed to deepen engagement with creators. The event is part of Spotify’s strategy to bolster its presence in the video sector, complementing its audio offerings. Recent reports suggest that the company aims to attract video creators with lucrative deals to bring their content onto the platform.

This AI song takes over Spotify—but it’s not all good vibes

Ek also discussed how Spotify has been implementing AI-driven tools to enhance user engagement, specifically referencing the success of the AI DJ feature. This measured approach reflects Spotify’s intent to balance innovation with sustainable growth.

Investors reacted positively to the news from Spotify, with shares rising over 10% after the third-quarter results indicated that subscriber growth slightly surpassed expectations. The combination of increased active users and positive financial forecasts for Q4 solidifies Spotify’s trajectory as a leading player in the music streaming industry.

Featured image credit: sgcdesignco/Unsplash

A lot of users are questioning why is their Spotify crashing after updates, and this is not the first time in the history.

About a year ago, on July 9, 2023, at 1:24 PM, a community forum user by the username “giovaas,”shared a frustrating Spotify issue with the following message:

“It’s the third time that i try to listen to Bruddanem by JID entirely and I can’t because Spotify crashes every time. I am exhausted with the bugs in this application and the changes for the worse that you make. Before a few updates ago I had the beautiful graphics of the new player and now the old one is back, which I honestly think is awful even compared to other streaming services. Also when you make new changes I don’t know why they go away after a few updates, apart from the fact that to me the new features take forever to arrive compared to my friends. I love music and I hate when I’m unable to listen to it because of these stupid problems. I’m seriously thinking about switching to apple music, because I can’t take it anymore. Sorry for the outburst, but I have been seeing these things for years and now I’m at the limit, really,” the user said.

During that period, the Spotify crashing issue could be resolved by updating to version 8.8.52. However, despite numerous subsequent updates, the problem appears to persist. This continuing trend raises concerns about the underlying stability of the platform, as each new version seems to introduce as many challenges as it resolves. The community has documented these ongoing issues, hoping for a more permanent solution that ensures a good user experience across all devices and operating systems.

Why is Spotify crashing after the update?

Spotify crashing after an update can be attributed to several potential reasons. Here are some of the most common factors that might cause this issue:

• Software bugs: New updates can sometimes introduce bugs that interfere with the app’s performance. Even if the update aims to improve the app, it can inadvertently cause issues like crashes if there are unresolved bugs in the code.
• Compatibility issues: An update may not be fully compatible with all versions of a device’s operating system or with certain hardware configurations. This can particularly be a problem if the device is running an older version of iOS or Android that isn’t fully supported by the latest Spotify update.
• Corrupt app data: Updates can sometimes corrupt existing app data or settings. This corruption can cause the app to crash repeatedly, especially if it tries to access or modify the corrupted data.
• Insufficient device resources: If the update requires more memory or processing power than your device can provide, it might cause the app to crash. This is more common in older devices that have limited resources.
• Network issues: Sometimes, the way an app interacts with its servers can change with an update. If there are network configuration issues or poor internet connectivity, it could result in the app crashing.
• Conflicting applications: Other apps on your device might conflict with the new version of Spotify. This is especially true for apps that have overlay permissions or those that manage device resources intensively.
• Improper installation: If the update process is interrupted or doesn’t complete properly, it might leave the app in an unstable state, which can lead to crashes.

How to fix the Spotify crashing issue?

If you’re experiencing persistent issues with Spotify crashing after an update, there are still several solutions you might consider to alleviate the problem. Each method addresses different potential causes, from software glitches to deeper system issues.

Solution 1: Fix iOS bug If Spotify keeps crashing on iPhone/iPad

When Spotify repeatedly crashes on your iPhone or iPad, one common culprit could be an underlying iOS system bug. To resolve this, consider using a reliable iOS system recovery tool.

Solution 2: Log out and restart tour iPhone/iPad

For a straightforward fix without third-party software, try logging out of your Spotify account and restarting your device. This can often resolve minor glitches affecting app performance. To log out, navigate to your Spotify settings by tapping Your Library, then the gear icon, and finally, tap Log Out. Afterward, restart your iPhone or iPad, and log back in to check if Spotify continues to crash.

Solution 3: Update the Spotify app on iPhone/iPad

Keeping your apps up-to-date is crucial for optimal performance. If you haven’t enabled auto-updates, manually check for the latest Spotify version in the App Store. Tap on the Updates icon, locate Spotify, and select Update. This can fix issues caused by outdated software, ensuring you have the latest improvements and bug fixes.

Spotify Car Thing refunds offered amidst lawsuit and backlash

Solution 4: Reinstall the Spotify app

If updates and restarts don’t resolve the crashing, a fresh installation of Spotify might help. Uninstall the app by holding down any app icon until they jiggle, then tap the X on Spotify’s icon. Reinstall it by searching for Spotify in the App Store and downloading it anew. A fresh install can clear lingering data that might be causing the app to crash.

Featured image credit: Heidi Fin/Unsplash

The Spotify Car Thing refund class action lawsuit has been filed and consumers are breathing fire at the giant company.

Spotify’s Car Thing, a dedicated in-car streaming device, has been making headlines not for its features, but for its untimely demise and the subsequent consumer backlash.

Launched in February 2022 with much fanfare and a waitlist of over 2 million eager users, Car Thing was discontinued later that year, leaving many early adopters feeling betrayed.

How did the Spotify Car Thing refund class action lawsuit start?

Spotify’s decision to brick Car Thing devices, rendering them useless by December 9, 2024, has not gone down well with users. Many took to social media platforms like TikTok to express their disappointment and frustration, leading to a class action lawsuit against Spotify.

The Spotify Car Thing refund class action lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, alleges that Spotify misled consumers by selling them a product that was soon to be obsolete and then failing to offer refunds.

In response to the growing backlash, Spotify has quietly instituted a Spotify Car Thing refund process for the app, provided users have proof of purchase. However, this gesture has done little to appease many users who are still pleading with the company not to brick their devices.

Some users have reported receiving several months of a Premium subscription as compensation, while others have been denied refunds altogether.

Is there a Spotify Car Thing alternative

While the refund option may appease some users, many remain dissatisfied. They are calling on Spotify to reconsider its decision to deactivate the Car Thing, citing concerns about e-waste and the device’s continued functionality.

The clamor for a “Spotify Car Thing alternative” or a reversal of the deactivation decision highlights the disconnect between Spotify’s actions and the desires of its user base.

Some have even suggested exploring Spotify Car Thing alternatives like Android Auto or CarPlay, but these solutions are not always feasible for users who do not have access to built-in infotainment systems in their cars.

A brewing storm for Spotify

The Spotify Car Thing refund controversy is just one of several challenges Spotify is currently facing. The company has recently introduced paid access to lyrics, a feature previously available for free, leading to further user discontent.

Additionally, Spotify raised its subscription rates last year, and another price hike is expected in 2024. These developments, coupled with the Car Thing debacle, paint a picture of a company grappling with balancing profitability and user satisfaction.

A crucial juncture

As the Car Thing saga unfolds, it remains to be seen how Spotify will address the ongoing backlash and the pending class action lawsuit. The company’s response to this crisis will likely shape its reputation and relationship with its user base in the long run.

The fate of the Car Thing serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of transparent communication, consumer trust, and the delicate balance between innovation and obsolescence in the fast-paced tech industry.

As Spotify navigates these turbulent waters, it faces a crucial decision: will it prioritize user satisfaction and seek a compromise, or will it forge ahead with its current course, risking further alienation of its user base? The answer to this question may very well determine Spotify’s future trajectory…

Featured image credit: Spotify

The new Spotify font, Spotify Mix, is making a splash in the music streaming.

In a blog post, The streaming giant recently revealed its bespoke typeface, Spotify Mix, which is set to replace the existing Circular typeface used across the app. This new font is more than just a visual refresh; it’s a carefully crafted design that aims to enhance the overall Spotify experience.

The development of Spotify Mix has been a meticulous process, involving collaboration between Spotify’s in-house design team and renowned type foundry Dinamo. The goal was to create a font that not only looks good but also feels intrinsically connected to the essence of music. Spotify Mix achieves this by seamlessly blending classic and contemporary styles, incorporating shapes reminiscent of sound waves to evoke a sense of rhythm and movement.

Turning up the volume on typography with Spotify Mix

The new Spotify font, Spotify Mix, is designed to be versatile and adaptable, suitable for a wide range of applications within the app. From playlist titles and artist names to album covers and promotional materials, Spotify Mix will be integrated into every corner of the Spotify interface. This comprehensive approach ensures a cohesive and visually engaging experience for users, no matter where they navigate within the app.

One of the key features of Spotify Mix is its ability to work harmoniously with both Latin and non-Latin scripts. This is particularly important for Spotify, as it caters to a global audience with diverse linguistic needs. The font’s design takes into account the unique characteristics of different writing systems, ensuring that it remains legible and visually appealing across various languages.

The sound of the style of the new Spotify font

The new Spotify font, Spotify Mix, consists of nine different weights, ranging from Hairline to Black, providing designers with ample flexibility to create visually striking compositions. Each weight has been meticulously crafted to maintain the font’s overall character while offering distinct variations in thickness and style. This allows for a wide range of expressive possibilities, from delicate and subtle accents to bold and impactful headlines.

In addition to its diverse weights, Spotify Mix also includes a set of alternate characters and ligatures. These special glyphs add an extra layer of visual interest and personality to the font, allowing designers to create unique and eye-catching designs. Whether it’s a stylized ampersand or a flowing ligature that connects two letters seamlessly, these alternate characters offer a wealth of creative options.

A company’s typeface is more than just words on a page

A company’s chosen font, much like its logo or color palette, is a fundamental element of its brand identity. It’s the visual representation of the company’s voice and personality, conveying a message that goes beyond the literal meaning of the words. From website headers to marketing materials, the font a company uses leaves a lasting impression on its audience.

A well-chosen font can evoke emotions, establish trust, and create a sense of familiarity. It can also differentiate a company from its competitors, making it stand out in a crowded marketplace. Whether it’s a classic serif font that exudes sophistication or a modern sans-serif font that conveys innovation, the right typeface can help a company communicate its values and connect with its target audience on a deeper level.

Spotify AI Playlist is a new way to explore music

Fonts are not merely decorative elements; they have a profound impact on how information is perceived and processed. Different fonts can evoke different moods and associations, influencing how a message is interpreted. A bold, impactful font can convey confidence and authority, while a playful, whimsical font can suggest creativity and approachability.

The choice of font can also affect readability and legibility. Some fonts are easier to read in small sizes or on digital screens, while others are better suited for print materials. By selecting fonts that are both visually appealing and easy to read, companies can ensure that their message is effectively communicated to their audience.

Beyond aesthetics

A company’s font selection is not simply a matter of personal preference; it’s a strategic decision that should align with the company’s overall branding strategy. The chosen font should complement the company’s logo, color palette, and visual identity, creating a cohesive and recognizable brand image.

In addition to visual appeal, the font should also consider the company’s target audience and industry. A financial institution, for example, might opt for a more traditional and conservative font to convey stability and trustworthiness, while a tech startup might choose a modern and cutting-edge font to reflect its innovative spirit.

Featured image credit: Spotify/YouTube

Spotify’s Discover Weekly not updating has momentarily disrupted the routine of numerous users who depend on advanced AI-driven recommendation systems, much like those employed by Netflix to customize viewing experiences.

These personalized music playlists have become uplifting in the weekly schedule for many individuals, ranging from office workers seeking motivation to students needing a musical refresh during their commute. The absence of an updated Discover Weekly playlist on Monday is not a minor inconvenience for many; it represents a missing beat in their rhythm of life.

From the playlists that jumpstart our mornings to the shows that keep us glued to the couch at night, AI algorithms are quietly learning our preferences and influencing the cultural experiences we choose nowadays.

As you can see in the screenshot below taken by a colleague of mine, Spotify’s Discover Weekly is gone for some users both on Windows app and mobile version:

Why is Spotify Discover Weekly not updating for some users?

Currently, the same issue is being discussed on the Spotify subreddit, where a user named GumAndBeef posted:

“Is anyone else’s Discover Weekly empty this week? I wanted to listen to the new song recommendations as I do every single Monday Morning, but for some reason it’s empty on all my devices… Daily mixes and everything else works fine.”

Numerous other users are confirming that they are also experiencing this problem, indicating it might be a widespread issue.

The current problem with Spotify Discover Weekly not updating isn’t an isolated incident. We’ve seen similar issues emerge throughout history. In fact, back in 2019, a user by the name of Cyldman took to Spotify’s community forums to express their frustration with the very same problem:

“Hey guys, so it’s been the third week with this issue, I though it could be a problem with spotify so I let it go, but I’m guessing it’s my account only. My discover weekly it’s empty, and I tried to logout and login again and I tried to unfollow and follow the playlist. Still empty. It’s the main reason I use spotify, any idea how to fix it? Thanks.”

Just below the post, an answer marked as solution shared by Peter states that:

“Hey folks, Sounds like @Smexyskeletor’s solution from this thread solved the issue for you – kudos to you! Let us know if you’re still experiencing this issue – we’ll be here to help.”

We haven’t tried this solution, yet, in 2019 Smexyskeletor was able to fix the issue by following the below steps:

“I FOUND THE SOLUTION!!!!

It even got my friend’s activity tab working, that’s been dead for months!

I recommend checking your hosts file for any Spotify-related entries.
The file is capable of redirecting traffic for addresses it contains, so it can break Spotify app when it contains Spotify addresses.

It’s easy to check and edit, you’ll need admin rights:

1. open Notepad as an administrator (right-click – Open as Administrator)
2. go to File – Open and navigate to

3. Choose “All Files” instead of “Text Documents” next to the File Name box. You’ll see a handful of files. Pick hosts and click on Open.
4. The file is opened. You will see a block of text with # in front of each line and might see entries like

Check for any entries with spotify or fastly in the address. Examples may look like:

Is Spotify Discover Weekly long gone?

It appears there may be a temporary issue affecting the service for some users. We have contacted Spotify for comment to determine whether this is a localized problem affecting individual users or a broader glitch in their system. We are awaiting their response and will update the story with their comment.

Update: A spokesperson from Spotify’s PR team reached out to us stating that “Spotify is aware of this bug and the issue has already been resolved.”

Featured image credit: Fath/Unsplash

Spotify AI Playlists can solve one of the biggest problems with listening to music: what to listen to. Music has a unique way of shaping our emotions and enhancing our experiences, and Spotify understands that better than anyone. That’s why they’ve introduced Spotify AI Playlist, a groundbreaking feature that puts the power of personalized music curation in your hands.

Picture this: you’re in the mood for some feel-good tunes to brighten up your day, but you’re not sure where to start. That’s where Spotify AI Playlist comes in. With just a few simple prompts, you can create a custom playlist curated specifically for you, featuring all your favorite songs and artists.

Introducing Spotify AI Playlist – your music genie in an app

Spotify AI Playlist is an innovative feature introduced by Spotify, designed to enhance the music discovery and playlist creation experience for users. It uses advanced artificial intelligence algorithms and Spotify’s vast music database to curate personalized playlists based on user input. Remember Spotify AI DJ? This is its direct playlist maker version.

@robdad_

Since when did they have this update on spotify. Now they got chatGPT making our playlists… also wtf is Which House Exploration😭😭 #spotify #update #ai

♬ Heavy Metal Lover overlapped – jinxknsaudios

At its core, AI Playlist allows users to generate playlists by providing unique prompts or descriptions of the type of music they want. These prompts can range from simple phrases like “upbeat workout music” to more creative and specific requests such as “songs that make me feel like I’m wandering through a mystical forest.” Users can input these prompts directly into the Spotify app, and the AI algorithms will analyze the request to generate a playlist tailored to their preferences.

The AI Playlist feature leverages Spotify’s extensive catalog of songs, artists, genres, moods, and other metadata to ensure that the generated playlists accurately reflect the user’s desired vibe or mood. This means that users can expect diverse tracks that align with their musical tastes and preferences.

Additionally, AI Playlist is designed to be intuitive and user-friendly, making it accessible to both novice and experienced playlist creators. Users can easily manage the selection of songs in their playlists, preview tracks, and make adjustments based on their preferences. They can also provide feedback to refine the playlist further, ensuring that it meets their expectations.

Stable Audio 2.0 shows that AI can make music good enough to be played on the radio

While AI Playlist is still in beta, Spotify is continuously refining and improving the feature to provide users with an even more personalized and enjoyable music discovery experience. As it evolves, AI Playlist has the potential to become an indispensable tool for music lovers seeking new and exciting tracks to add to their playlists.

How to generate a Spotify AI Playlist

Generating a Spotify AI Playlist is a simple and straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

• Open the Spotify mobile app on your Android or iOS device. Make sure you’re logged in to your account.
• Tap on the “Your Library” tab located at the bottom-right corner of your screen. This will take you to your personal library of saved music, playlists, and more.
• Once in Your Library, tap the “+” button located at the top-right corner of the app. This will prompt a menu of options to appear.
• From the menu of options, choose “AI Playlist.” This will initiate the process of generating a personalized playlist using artificial intelligence.

• Now, it’s time to input a prompt or description of the type of music you’re looking for. You can either choose one of the suggested prompts provided by Spotify or get creative and type your own. For example, you could try phrases like “energetic workout music,” “chill study vibes,” or “songs for a rainy day.”
• Now, it’s time to input a prompt or description of the type of music you’re looking for. You can either choose one of the suggested prompts provided by Spotify or get creative and type your own. For example, you could try phrases like “energetic workout music,” “chill study vibes,” or “songs for a rainy day.”
• Once the playlist is generated, you’ll be presented with a selection of tracks that match the vibe you’re going for. You can preview the tracks, delete any that you don’t like, and make adjustments as needed. If you have specific preferences, you can also provide feedback to refine the playlist further.
• Once you’re satisfied with the selection of tracks, tap the “Create” button to save your new playlist automatically to Your Library. You can then access and listen to it anytime you like.

And that’s it! You’ve successfully generated a Spotify AI Playlist tailored to your unique musical tastes and preferences. Feel free to experiment with different prompts to discover new and exciting music curated just for you. Enjoy exploring your personalized playlists!

Is the Spotify AI playlist not showing/working?

Spotify AI Playlist is available in beta for users in the United Kingdom and Australia on Android and iOS devices. However, availability may vary depending on your location and device. If you’re experiencing issues with Spotify AI Playlist not showing or working, here are a few troubleshooting steps you can try:

• Update your Spotify App: Make sure you’re using the latest version.
• Check availability: Confirm if Spotify AI Playlist is available in your country.
• Restart the app: Close and reopen Spotify.
• Clear cache and data: Try clearing the app’s cache and data.
• Contact support: Reach out to Spotify’s customer support for assistance.

Keep in mind that Spotify AI Playlist is still in beta, so there may be occasional bugs or limitations. However, Spotify continuously works to improve the feature and expand its availability to more users over time.

Have you ever wanted to ask a question and receive a song as an answer? Meet the Spotify Song Psychic, the new feature lets you do just that!

With Song Psychic, you can ask all kinds of questions about love, school, work, and more. Then, Spotify will respond with a song that matches your question. It’s a fun and entertaining way to interact with music. Spotify warns that while the Song Psychic feature might seem like an AI chatbot, it works differently.

What is the new Spotify Song Psychic feature?

The new Spotify Song Psychic feature lets you ask questions and receive answers in the form of songs. It’s a fun way to get insights on topics like launch, career, and more. Just think of a question, and Song Psychic will reveal your answer with a song.

The Spotify Song Pn AIsychic feature works by leveraging Spotify’s extensive music library and matching specific keywords in song titles with the questions asked by users. While it may give the impression of being AI-powered, Spotify clarifies that the responses are generated entirely at random and do not rely on personal data. The experience is designed for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered a serious source of advice. So, while it may feel like interacting with an AI chatbot, the responses are more akin to playful coincidences rather than AI-driven insights. It’s a bit like having a musical magic eight ball at your fingertips

Available for both free and Premium users in many languages and countries, it’s a playful addition to the Spotify experience!

How to use the Spotify Song Psychic feature

Using the new Spotify Song Psychic feature is easy and fun! Here’s how you can use it:

• Visit spotify.com/songpsychic on your mobile device or scan the QR code provided on Song Psychic’s website.

• Once you’re on the Song Psychic page, you’ll find various categories to choose from, such as School, Love, Career, and more. Select a category that interests you.
• Next, you can either pick from pre-populated questions or type your own question into the provided box.
• After submitting your question, the screen will display vibrant colors swirling around, accompanied by mystical music. For example, you can learn should you go to clown school or not.

• Finally, your answer will be revealed in the form of a song!

Remember, the Song Psychic feature is available for both free and Premium Spotify subscribers in many languages and countries. So, go ahead and have fun exploring the mystical world of Song Psychic!

How to find Spotify Daylist

Well done Spotify

Additions like Spotify’s Song Psychic feature can positively affect users. Firstly, features like Song Psychic make Spotify more fun to use. Users might spend more time exploring it and trying out different questions. This increased interaction means people might use Spotify more often to try out the Song Psychic feature.

Moreover, since you can share your Song Psychic results on social media, users might enjoy sharing their experiences with their friends. It’s a cool way to interact with others and show off the quirky responses they’ve received.

Additionally, Song Psychic makes Spotify more interesting and enjoyable. It’s something different that users can try out, which adds to their overall enjoyment of the platform. When Spotify keeps adding cool features like Song Psychic, users might feel more loyal to the brand.

In short, features like Song Psychic make Spotify more exciting and can make users want to keep using it. It adds a fun twist to the usual music streaming experience, enhancing user engagement and loyalty.

Featured image credit: Spotify

Have you heard about Spotify’s new feature, the Daylist? Today, we will show you how to find Spotify Daylist Everyone’s talking about how to find it. It’s a cool new way to listen to music that changes with your day, and it’s been around since last September. Now, it’s really popular because it gives you a playlist that fits your mood and what you’re doing.

Are you curious about how to find your Daylist on Spotify? Whether you’re a long-time Spotify fan or just getting started, this guide will show you how to do it. We’re going to make it easy for you to find and enjoy your Daylist, whether you’re using your phone or your computer. So, let’s dive in and find out how this awesome new feature can change how you listen to music daily.

How to find Spotify Daylist on mobile

Spotify’s Daylist offers a unique, daily musical journey reflective of your tastes and mood. Here’s how to find Spotify Daylist on mobile:

Find “daylist” under Made For You Hub

1. Launch Spotify: Initiate the Spotify app on your mobile device.
2. Access Search: Tap the “Search” icon. If it defaults to your search history, a second tap is required.
3. Locate Made For You: In the search results, scroll to find the “Made For You” section.
4. Discover Your Daylist: Within this section, the “daylist” playlist is prominently featured, offering a curated selection of music tailored to your day.
5. Enjoy Your Personalized Playlist: Select “daylist” to explore a collection of songs attuned to your current mood and activities.

Directly Searching for “daylist”

1. Open Spotify: Start by opening the Spotify app on your mobile.
2. Utilize the Search Feature: Click on the “Search” icon.
3. Search for ‘daylist’: Enter “daylist” in the search field and initiate the search.
4. Identify Your Daylist: Look for the playlist marked “Made for you,” denoting its personalized nature.
5. Verification: Ensure it’s tailored for you by checking for the label: “Made for Yourusername” beneath the playlist’s profile.

monday mood 🤝 daylist. what's your #daylist this morning?

— Spotify (@Spotify) September 18, 2023

How to find Spotify Daylist on desktop

The desktop version of Spotify provides a similarly seamless experience for accessing your Daylist. Here is how to find Spotify Daylist on your desktop or Web app:

Search for “daylist” on Desktop

1. Open Spotify: Use the Spotify desktop application or the Web Player.
2. Navigate to Search: Expand your library if needed and select “Search.”
3. Enter ‘daylist’: Type “daylist” in the search bar.
4. Locate the Playlist: Alternatively, use the “Playlists” option to locate your Daylist, identified by the “By Spotify” tag.
5. Start Listening: Click on the Daylist playlist to immerse yourself in music that resonates with your personal taste.

Find “daylist” under Made For You Hub

1. Launch Spotify: Open the Spotify desktop application or Web Player.
2. Search Icon: In the side menu, select the Search icon.
3. Browse Made For You: Choose “Made For You” under the “Browse all” category.
4. Find Daylist: In the “Uniquely yours” section, the “daylist” will be available.
5. Enjoy Your Playlist: Click on “daylist” to start enjoying Spotify’s recommendations for your day.

As noted by a Spotify spokesperson to Mashable, “Daylist updates frequently, bringing together the niche music and microgenres you typically stream at certain times of the day and week. You’ll get new tracks at every update, plus a new title that sets the mood of your daylist.”

How to see your playlist on Spotify without premium?

Now that we know how to find Spotify Daylist, let’s see if everyone can access it. An important aspect of Spotify’s Daylist is its accessibility to all users, irrespective of their subscription status. Both Premium and Free users can locate and enjoy their Daylist following the aforementioned steps, ensuring a comprehensive Spotify experience for everyone.

Where is Daylist on Spotify?

Daylist is conveniently accessible across various platforms. Mobile users can find it in the “Made For You” hub, while desktop users can locate it using the search bar. Spotify’s integration of the Daylist feature and its ease of sharing encourages users to explore and share their unique daily soundtracks.

In conclusion, Spotify’s Daylist emerges as a tailored musical experience reflective of individual tastes and daily rhythms. Accessing this feature on mobile or desktop is straightforward, offering users a personalized soundtrack to accompany their day. We hope you enjoyed reading our “How to find Spotify Daylist” guide!

Featured image credit: Imtiyaz Ali/Unsplash

If you want to know how to make a playlist in a bottle on Spotify, you are at the right place. Here are all the details about it!

Have you stumbled upon Spotify’s latest feature and found yourself wondering about the ins and outs of making a playlist in a bottle? Fear not, as we’ve got your back! In this article, we’ll unravel the mystery behind Spotify’s Playlist in a Bottle feature, guiding you through the process of creating your personalized musical time capsule. Get ready to curate your future nostalgia with the tunes that define your current music vibes.

How to make a playlist in a bottle on Spotify

Making a Playlist in a Bottle on Spotify is as simple as a few taps on your mobile device. Follow these steps to encapsulate your musical essence:

1. Visit spotify.com/playlistinabottle on your mobile device.

   Head over to the dedicated webpage to kickstart your journey into the world of Playlist in a Bottle.

2. Choose “Claim Your Playlist” to unveil your musical time capsule.

   Discover the songs sealed in your capsule and prepare for a nostalgic trip through your 2023 Playlist in a Bottle. Act fast, as you only have until January 31!

3. Save and listen to your complete 2023 Playlist in a Bottle.

   Immerse yourself in the musical journey you curated a year ago and relive the moments through the power of sound.

4. Create a new Playlist in a Bottle for 2025.

   Whether you’re a returning listener or a first-timer, answer fun prompts and select where to store your playlist, from a bottle to a snow globe or even a dumpster!

The creation process involves answering intriguing questions like “What song brings out my alter-ego” and “What song describes my relationship status.” Additionally, you’ll choose a unique object to store your playlist, leaving a note for your future self. Seal the musical time capsule and share your #PlaylistInABottle card on your preferred social platforms to spread the musical vibes. The “How to make a playlist in a bottle on Spotify” is over now, and it was pretty easy, right?

What is a Playlist in a Bottle on Spotify?

Playlist in a Bottle stands out as a unique feature on Spotify, offering users the chance to curate a playlist for future revisitation. Unlike Spotify Wrapped, which highlights your top songs and artists from the past year, Playlist in a Bottle lets you actively choose songs by responding to a set of questions. It’s akin to creating a personalized musical time capsule that captures the essence of your current musical taste.

Which countries and languages are eligible?

Wondering if you can partake in this musical adventure? Fret not, as Playlist in a Bottle is accessible in various countries and languages, ensuring a global celebration of music. From Argentina to the UAE, and English to Korean, Spotify has your back. So, whether you’re strolling through the streets of Paris or lounging in a café in Tokyo, Playlist in a Bottle is set to make your musical journey truly unforgettable. Here is a full list:

Countries

• Argentina
• Australia
• Brazil
• Canada
• Chile
• Colombia
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Egypt
• France
• Germany
• Hong Kong
• India
• Indonesia
• Italy
• Japan
• Kenya
• Malaysia
• Mexico
• Morocco
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Nigeria
• Philippines
• Poland
• Portugal
• Saudi Arabia
• Singapore
• South Africa
• South Korea
• Spain
• Sweden
• Taiwan
• Thailand
• Turkey
• UK
• UAE
• U.S.
• Vietnam

Languages

• English
• English-GB
• Portuguese
• Portuguese-BR
• French-CA
• Spanish-LATAM
• Dutch
• German
• French
• Italian
• Polish
• Spanish-ES
• Turkish
• Japanese
• Czech
• Thai
• Vietnamese
• Chinese-Traditional
• Korean
• Bahasa Indonesia

Seize the opportunity, create your playlist, and let the future you thank the present you for the tunes!

Third wave of Spotify layoffs in 2023…

CEO Daniel Ek revealed this decision on Monday, indicating a “significant” strategic redirection for the music-streaming giant. “Economic growth has slowed dramatically and capital has become more expensive. Spotify is not an exception to these realities,” Ek expressed in a staff letter posted on the company’s website.

What’s the catch behind Spotify layoffs in 2023?

The objective behind these Spotify layoffs in 2023 is to enhance the company’s efficiency, steering it towards its earlier startup ethos. This move comes after an extensive period of recruitment and investment, which, while boosting its subscriber count significantly, failed to establish consistent profitability.

Ek discussed the company’s contemplation over executing smaller-scale job cuts in the forthcoming years, particularly in 2024 and 2025. “Yet, considering the gap between our financial goal state and our current operational costs, I decided that a substantial action to right-size our costs was the best option to accomplish our objectives,” he elaborated.

“To be blunt, many smart, talented, and hard-working people will be departing us,” stated Ek, acknowledging the personal impact of the Spotify layoffs in 2023. He mentioned that one-on-one meetings with those affected by the job cuts would occur before the end of Tuesday. The employees being let go are expected to receive an average of five months of severance pay.

Spotify, with a workforce exceeding 9,000, previously implemented layoffs in January, letting go of over 500 employees. This action placed the company alongside other major tech firms like Microsoft and Amazon, which also reduced their headcounts in response to the global economic downturn. Additionally, in June, Spotify further reduced its staff by 200 within its podcasting division.

The tech industry saw a significant hiring increase during the Covid-19 pandemic, driven by heightened demand for services such as online shopping and videoconferencing. However, subsequent economic shifts, including inflation, rising interest rates, and the tightening of debt and equity funding, have led to a reduction in consumer spending. These factors have prompted several tech companies to implement substantial job cuts.

Despite experiencing “robust growth” over the past year, Spotify has faced challenges in maintaining efficiency and has strayed from the “resourcefulness” that was a hallmark of its initial phase as a tech startup, as per Ek’s analysis.

Ek emphasized that too many resources are currently allocated to support tasks, rather than focusing on delivering value to content creators and consumers. This point was highlighted amid the Spotify layoffs in 2023. Despite adding 6 million subscribers in the quarter from June to September, 2 million more than anticipated, Spotify only managed a modest profit of €32 million ($34.8 million) during this period. This was a slight improvement from a loss of €228 million ($248 million) reported in the same timeframe the previous year. The total subscriber count for the company now stands at 226 million.

“We still have a ways to go before we are both productive and efficient… we have to become relentlessly resourceful,” Ek remarked. He views these changes not as a regression but as a strategic realignment. “A reduction of this size will make it necessary to change the way we work, and we will share much more about what this will mean in the days and weeks ahead,” Ek concluded, indicating forthcoming shifts in operational strategies following the Spotify layoffs in 2023.

Tech giant layoffs continue in the wake of 2024

The trend of employee layoffs in the tech industry, which has been prevalent since 2022, has seen participation from numerous leading companies. Tech giants such as Nokia, Google, T-Mobile, Microsoft, Amazon, Facebook, and Twitter have all implemented workforce reductions in response to various economic pressures and strategic realignments. Spotify, with its recent announcement of layoffs in 2023, joins this list of major technology firms. This pattern underscores a broader industry shift as companies navigate changing market conditions and recalibrate their business strategies.

The Spotify Wrapped 2023 has us buzzing about our music tastes, but have you ever wondered average Spotify listening time to understand if your number is high or low? Spoiler alert: Spotify didn’t reveal the official data, but we wondered about it too, and decided to do some research.  We promise the result will surprise you.

Join us as we unpack the numbers, dig into the trends, and understand whether are we a die-hard music fan or just an average listener!

HOT: Spotify Wrapped 2024: How your year in music was captured by AI magic

What is the average Spotify listening time?

Unfortunately, there is no official statement about the statistics, however, there is data that can lead the way to the average Spotify listening time per year. In Spotify Wrapped 2023, when they say your total music listening, they also say your percentage of users. Let’s take mine as an example.

And according to Spotify’s official statement, they have more than 574 million users. So, it’s time to do some math:

Total minutes listened by all users=574 million × 0.19 x 19,448 minutes = 2.120.562.640.000 minutes

Average listening rate=2.120.562.640.000 / 574,000,000 ≈3695  minutes per user

So, the average Spotify listening time is approximately 3695 minutes per user/year. If your record is under this number, you can assume that you are under the average Spotify listening time. However, do you know who we all listen to? 

Spotify’s chart-toppers: Artists and songs that echoed in 2023

As the musical curtains draw close in 2023, Spotify’s annual data release showcases the artists and songs that resonated the most with the global audience.

Top artists

1. Taylor Swift
2. Drake
3. Morgan Wallen
4. The Weeknd
5. Bad Bunny
6. 21 Savage
7. SZA
8. Zach Bryan
9. Kanye West
10. Peso Pluma

Top songs

1. “Last Night” by Morgan Wallen
2. “Kill Bill” by SZA
3. “Flowers” by Miley Cyrus
4. “Ella Baila Sola” by Eslabon Armado and Peso Pluma
5. “Boy’s a liar Pt. 2” by PinkPantheress and Ice Spice
6. “Cruel Summer” by Taylor Swift
7. “Something in the Orange” by Zach Bryan
8. “You Proof” by Morgan Wallen
9. “Creepin’ (with The Weeknd & 21 Savage)” by Metro Boomin, The Weeknd, and 21 Savage
10. “Anti-Hero” by Taylor Swift

Top albums

Albums, like chapters in a novel, define the broader narrative of the musical year. Here are the top 10 most streamed albums globally:

1. “Un Verano Sin Ti” by Bad Bunny
2. “Midnights” by Taylor Swift
3. “SOS” by SZA
4. “Starboy” by The Weeknd
5. “Mañana Será Bonito” by Karol G
6. “One Thing At A Time” by Morgan Wallen
7. “Lover” by Taylor Swift
8. “Heroes & Villains” by Metro Boomin
9. “Génesis” by Peso Pluma
10. “Harry’s House” by Harry Styles

As we wrap up the year, these Spotify revelations not only serve as a testament to the diverse musical tastes of millions but also as a communal celebration of the artists and melodies that have painted the auditory canvas of 2023. So, whether you’re reveling in the poetry of Taylor Swift, dancing to the beats of Bad Bunny, or philosophizing with Joe Rogan, Spotify’s Wrapped has once again united music enthusiasts in a harmonious celebration of the artistry that makes life a little more melodic.

Are you above the average Spotify listening time?

As of 2023, with a staggering user base exceeding 574million, Spotify has become the epicenter of this musical symphony. By extrapolating the data, a fascinating revelation emerges: the average music listening rate on Spotify globally stands at approximately 3695 minutes per user/year.

As we celebrate Spotify’s role in shaping the modern music landscape, it’s evident that the average listening rate encapsulates not just numbers but the diverse stories, emotions, and moments that music accompanies in the lives of millions across the globe. However, the only important question is the next question song you will play, and here is a suggestion for you.

Happy listenings!

Featured image credit: Spotify 

Spotify Wrapped 2023 springs into action, showcasing trending artists, songs, albums, and podcasts, while offering users a deep dive into their personal listening patterns. This freshly released edition is readily accessible through the Spotify mobile app, both on iOS and Android, or by navigating directly to Spotify’s website on a desktop.

HOT: Spotify Wrapped 2024: How your year in music was captured by AI magic

This year’s Spotify Wrapped not only provides the usual insights into individual listening preferences but also introduces innovative features. The ‘Me in 2023’ section, a novel addition, aligns your Spotify usage with one of 12 distinct listening styles. Another feature, ‘Sound Town’, pairs you with a city that echoes your music tastes and artist connections.

Traditional insights like the Top Five Genres and Top Five Artists have been revamped with a fresh design. Adding a personal touch, some of 2023’s celebrated musicians have recorded special messages for users, playing if they rank among your top artists.

A new AI DJ feature is part of this year’s Wrapped, creating a personalized mix tailored to your preferences and offering insights about your favorite genres, songs, and artists. This feature will be active during the first week following Wrapped’s launch.

In a grand gesture to mark the arrival of Spotify Wrapped 2023, a unique live event is slated for tomorrow night (November 30) in London. This unprecedented show will feature live performances from Sam Smith, Chase & Status, Charli XCX, Raye, and others. The event will be streamed live on TikTok from 8.30pm, and you can join the livestream here.

How to see your Spotify Wrapped 2023?

Accessing your Spotify Wrapped 2023 is simple. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Launch Spotify on your mobile device. You should see a prompt for your 2023 Wrapped right on the app’s homepage. If it’s not there, or if you’re using a web browser, head over to www.spotify.com/us/wrapped.
2. The Wrapped Story will guide you through an exploration of your musical journey over the past year, highlighting your favored genres, songs, and artists.
3. This year, Spotify Wrapped introduces a unique way to categorize your listening habits, identifying you as one of 12 listener types. For instance, you might be labeled a “hypnotist” if you often immerse yourself in albums from start to finish, or a “vampire” if you gravitate towards more emotional, atmospheric music.
4. As you journey through your Wrapped Story, each slide comes with a “share” button at the bottom. Use this to either save individual slides to your camera roll or share them on social media platforms. Additionally, at the end of the Wrapped Story, you’ll get a chance to save and even alter the color scheme of your Top Artists summary.

Is there a version of this for Apple Music?

Apple Music offers the Replay feature, available throughout the year, allowing users to delve into their listening habits in detail. Recently, the platform introduced its own year-end experience akin to Spotify Wrapped. Check out more details here: How to get Apple Music Replay 2023?

The winners of 2023

Most-streamed artists globally:

1. Taylor Swift
2. Bad Bunny
3. The Weeknd
4. Drake
5. Peso Pluma
6. Feid
7. Travis Scott
8. SZA
9. Karol G
10. Lana Del Rey

Most-streamed songs globally:

1. ‘Flowers’ –Miley Cyrus
2. ‘Kill Bill’ – SZA
3. ‘As It Was’ – Harry Styles
4. ‘Seven (feat. Latto) (Explicit Ver.)’ – Jung Kook, Latto
5. ‘Ella Baila Sola’ – Eslabon Armado, Peso Pluma
6. ‘Cruel Summer’ – Taylor Swift
7. ‘Creepin’ (with The Weeknd & 21 Savage)’ – Metro Boomin, The Weeknd, 21 Savage
8. ‘Calm Down (with Selena Gomez)’ –Rema, Selena Gomez
9. ‘Shakira: Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53’ – Bizarrap, Shakira
10. ‘Anti-Hero’ – Taylor Swift

Most-streamed albums globally:

1. ‘Un Verano Sin Ti’ – Bad Bunny
2. ‘Midnights’ –Taylor Swift
3. ‘SOS’ – SZA
4. ‘Starboy’ – The Weeknd
5. ‘MAÑANA SERÁ BONITO’ – KAROL G
6. ‘One Thing At A Time’ – Morgan Wallen
7. ‘Lover’ – Taylor Swift
8. ‘HEROES & VILLAINS’ – Metro Boomin
9. ‘GÉNESIS’ – Peso Pluma
10. ‘Harry’s House’ by Harry Styles

Top podcasts globally:

1. The Joe Rogan Experience
2. Call Her Daddy
3. Huberman Lab
4. Anything Goes with Emma Chamberlain
5. On Purpose with Jay Shetty
6. Crime Junkie
7. This Past Weekend w/ Theo Von
8. Serial Killers
9. The Diary Of A CEO with Steven Bartlett
10. TED Talks Daily

Featured image credit: Spotify

Spotify has introduced an innovative feature harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI). This new feature can translate podcasts into multiple languages while retaining the original voices of the speakers. This remarkable development is partially attributed to OpenAI’s latest voice generation technology, capable of replicating a voice with just a few seconds of audio input.

Spotify touts this feature as a game-changer for podcast enthusiasts, offering “a more authentic listening experience that sounds more personal and natural than traditional dubbing.” With this innovation, podcast episodes originally recorded in English can now be enjoyed in various languages, all while preserving the distinctive speech characteristics of the original speakers.

Embracing multilingual podcasting

Starting today, Spotify is rolling out voice-translated episodes from select creators, initially focusing on translating from English to Spanish. In the coming days, French and German episodes will also be added to this impressive repertoire.

Some of the episodes currently available in Spanish include:

• Lex Fridman Podcast – “Interview with Yuval Noah Harari”
• Armchair Expert – “Kristen Bell, by the grace of god, returns”
• The Diary of a CEO with Steven Bartlett – “Interview with Dr. Mindy Pelz”

Listeners can easily explore these translated episodes by visiting the Voice Translation hub within Spotify’s app, with an assurance that more translated shows are on the horizon in the weeks and months to come.

A boon for podcasting and beyond

With approximately 100 million regular podcast listeners on its platform, Spotify’s AI-powered voice translation feature is poised to open up new and vast markets for podcast creators. It’s a promising opportunity for content creators to expand their reach and connect with diverse global audiences.

Spotify is thrilled to announce the rollout of its AI-powered voice-translated episodes, beginning today in the Now Playing View of supported episodes. But if you’re eager to dive into these exciting translations right now, make a beeline for Spotify’s Voice Translations Hub, where they will continuously add a treasure trove of voice-translated episodes in the weeks and months ahead. Your multilingual podcast journey awaits!

However, the true litmus test for Spotify’s new feature lies in its ability to accurately capture the nuances of the original dialogue. While technology has made remarkable strides, the subtleties of language and context can be challenging to replicate. Podcast enthusiasts worldwide will be keenly watching how well this AI-driven translation feature performs in preserving the essence of their favorite shows.

The future of voice cloning technology

This development also raises intriguing questions about the future of voice cloning technology. As AI continues to advance, the technology that powers Spotify’s translation feature could potentially be used for movies and TV shows, replicating entire casts’ voices for international versions of content. This could mark another setback for traditional voice actors, as automation encroaches on their domain.

Voice cloning technology, while revolutionary, comes with its own set of challenges. Its growing capabilities have raised concerns about its misuse. There have been reports of scams involving voice cloning, and the technology could potentially be used to create convincing misinformation. This could involve impersonating politicians or prominent figures, creating audio that appears to depict them saying things they never did.

As we witness the evolution of AI-driven voice technology, it’s clear that the possibilities are limitless, and the ethical and practical implications are manifold. While there are potential pitfalls, the introduction of Spotify’s voice translation feature showcases how AI can enhance our listening experiences and bring people closer together, regardless of language barriers. The future of audio entertainment is looking brighter and more accessible than ever before.

Featured image credit: Spotify

Spotify AI DJ is the latest example of artificial intelligence in everyday life. The Swedish firm is among the most popular music streaming services because of the outstanding customization options it provides to each individual user. Most users enjoy the app’s customized features, especially the Suggested Daily Mix, weekly playlists, and podcasts. However, it seems like Spotify thinks non-interactive playlists will be outdated soon, and they are quite right.

The company hopes to improve the customer experience by getting involved with AI technology, which is currently trending at an exceptional level. With a new OpenAI-powered DJ, Spotify lets you create unique playlists while interacting in real-time, much like having your own radio show. So, let’s take a closer look at how to get Spotify AI DJ.

How to get Spotify AI DJ?

Where to find and use the Spotify AI DJ? Spotify AI DJ is now in beta testing and is only available to Premium subscribers in the United States and Canada, but it will be available to everyone in the near future. First, make sure your Spotify app is up to date to be able to use the Spotify AI DJ and then follow the steps below:

• Open Spotify mobile app on your iOS or Android device.
• In the Home screen, head over to your Music Feed.
• Tap on Play on the DJ card.
• That’s it; your radio show will start thanks to the Spotify AI DJ feature.

Check out how to use GPT-4 and learn ChatGPT’s new features

Spotify AI DJ desktop

How to get Spotify AI DJ on a desktop? Currently, this feature is only available in phone apps, but that doesn’t mean you can’t use Spotify AI DJ on PC. The AI DJ can be accessed on a computer by first launching it on a mobile device and then choosing the computer as the destination for the audio stream. The bottom left corner of your phone screen is usually where you’ll find this choice.

This should solve your problem, unless…

Spotify AI DJ not showing up: Don’t panic!

How to get Spotify AI DJ even if its not showing up? First of all, at this time, the new Spotify AI DJ tool is only available to Spotify Premium subscribers in the United States and Canada. Spotify will likely roll out the service to additional nations in the future, so don’t panic if you aren’t currently located in one of these two. You’ll have to be patient, though.

The Spotify AI DJ not showing up error can be frustrating, but the following workarounds may help if you’re located in the United States or Canada and use the new feature:

• Restart Spotify
• Check your internet connection
• Update your Spotify
• Check the Spotify server status
• Clear Spotify app cache and data

Is it solved, and now you wonder how Spotify AI DJ works? Don’t worry we’ve got you covered, as always. Keep reading and find out the behind-the-scenes of your own personal radio.

How does Spotify AI DJ work?

Last year, Spotify bought the artificial intelligence voice platform Sonantic, which developed the speech synthesis technology to create Val Kilmer’s voice in Top Gun: Maverick. That’s why it seemed inevitable that Spotify would find a method to incorporate the tech into its music streaming service and so provide its users with novel experiences.

According to Spotify, the AI DJ will play new releases and revisit old favorites, possibly bringing back a track you haven’t heard in years. When you teach it about the kinds of music you like, it’ll analyze your tastes and start playing you with a personalized playlist. Furthermore, the lineup is regularly updated in response to customer comments.

Xavier “X” Jernigan, Spotify’s Head of Cultural Partnerships, provides a running commentary for Spotify DJ, the newest tool available to Premium subscribers that employ artificial intelligence to simulate a live radio station. This improved AI imitates the host of Spotify’s morning show, The Get Up, and provides insightful comments about the album or song you’re currently listening to based on machine learning about your listening patterns and musical preferences.

Spotify AI DJ Europe release date

How to get Spotify AI DJ outside of the USA and Canada? The future of the Spotify AI DJ feature is now unclear as it is still in the beta testing phase. If it’s well received and evolves for the better, we expect it to be available to the public in the near future.

AI 101

Are you new to AI? You can still get on the AI train, like Spotify! We have created a detailed AI glossary for the most commonly used artificial intelligence terms and explain the basics of artificial intelligence as well as the risks and benefits of AI. Feel free the use them.

Other AI tools we have reviewed

Almost every day, a new tool, model, or feature pops up and changes our lives, like Bing AI mobile, and we have already reviewed some of the best ones:

• Text-to-text AI tools
  • Google Bard AI 
  • Chinchilla
  • Notion AI
  • Chai
  • NovelAI
  • Caktus AI
  • AI Dungeon
  • ChatGPT

Do you want to learn how to use ChatGPT effectively? We have some tips and tricks for you without switching to ChatGPT Plus! AI prompt engineering is the key to limitless worlds, but you should be careful; when you want to use the AI tool, you can get errors like “ChatGPT is at capacity right now” and “too many requests in 1-hour try again later”. Yes, they are really annoying errors, but don’t worry; we know how to fix them.

• Text-to-image AI tools
  • MyHeritage AI Time Machine
  • Reface app
  • Dawn AI
  • Lensa AI
  • Meitu AI Art
  • Stable Diffusion
  • DALL-E 2
  • Google Muse AI
  • Artbreeder AI
  • Midjourney
  • DreamBooth AI
  • Wombo Dream
  • Tome AI
  • Interior AI
  • NightCafe AI
  • QQ Different Dimension Me
  • Random face generators

While there are still some debates about artificial intelligence-generated images, people are still looking for the best AI art generators. Will AI replace designers? Keep reading and find out.

• Other AI tools
  • Poised AI
  • Make-A-Video
  • Uberduck AI
  • MOVIO AI
  • Nvidia Eye Contact AI
  • Tome AI

Spotify analytics for listeners is how the popular streaming service also captures the hearts of its users. Many websites allow you to check these analytics if you have ever wanted to delve deeper into your listening habits — maybe to see which songs you listen to the most or compare your preferences with others. These sites range from academic to comical, but they’ll all assist in illuminating your music appreciation in a new light. Spotify analytics for listeners is also a good example of machine learning benefits. These websites use ML and AI for analysis. Additionally, did you know Spotify is using deep learning to recommend songs you’ll love?

Spotify analytics for listeners

Are you curious about your Spotify listening habits? Do you want to know how popular or obscure your music taste is, or do you need some help organizing your playlists by finding useful information about the music you listen to?

You may accomplish a lot more with some fantastic websites and applications that have been created, especially to give you a thorough look at your Spotify listening habits.

These are some of the best Spotify analytics for listeners:

• Spotify Wrapped
• Stats for Spotify
• Obscurify
• Skiley 
• Spotify Charts
• Discover Quickly
• MusicScape
• Visualify
• Last.fm
• Run BPM

However, there is a catch. To access Spotify data, each website requires you to log in to your Spotify account and grant permission. So, if that’s not something you’re comfortable with, you might want to skip it.

You may remove access to any third-party app or site you’ve allowed by going to your Spotify app settings and removing the Remove Access option beside each application or site on the Apps page.

If you’re fine with it, let’s look at the top Spotify analytics for listeners’ services.

Spotify Wrapped

Let’s start with the most well-known and official example.

Spotify annually releases Spotify Wrapped, a slideshow in which you may view who your favorite musicians, songs, and genres were over the previous year. You also get a list of how long you spent listening to Spotify and a playlist containing your top 100 songs.

There’s nothing you need to plug into your Spotify account to discover this. When it debuts, the slideshow will show up in your Spotify app automatically, so you can see it and share it with all of your friends.

After a while, the Wrapped slideshows will be gone. However, you can locate any of your Wrapped playlists from years past by visiting the Spotify website and looking for these links:

• Wrapped 2021
• Wrapped 2020
• Wrapped 2019
• Wrapped 2018
• Wrapped 2017

Stats for Spotify

Spotify’s most basic “stats” resource is probably Stats for Spotify. From your Spotify account, you may view your favorite artists, songs, and genres from the previous month, six months, or throughout your whole listening history.

You may also jump straight to the bottom of your Top Tracks list and discover a Create playlist button that instantly lets you put all the songs on that list into a playlist.

Obscurify

Obscurify compares your score to that of other users in your area and gives you a personalized list based on their popularity. It also provides a comprehensive top 10 and a ranked list of your favorite genres.

This excellent website can generate a playlist with your top songs and automatically add it to your library. This is a great aid when you’re running out of ideas.

Skiley 

Skiley is a handy web app that collects data about your listening habits, manages your playlist by artists, genre, beats per minute, or mood, and finds new tunes appropriate for your music taste. Moreover, it provides other helpful information such as song lyrics and translations.

Spotify Charts

If you’re looking for ideas on what to listen to next, go beyond your music library and check out Spotify Charts, a website that displays the most popular songs on the site.

You may look at the Top200 or the Viral50, allowing you to filter the results by region and time. You can also export the data as a CSV file. It’s useful!

It also has a feature that narrows down your top tunes regionally and globally, according to your current needs.

Discover Quickly

Quickly sorts your playlists, top songs, and top artists by various criteria, such as popularity and danceability. It also contains all of Spotify’s wacky specific genres, including deep metalcore, acid house, and charred death. If you choose a genre, it will create a playlist of music from that genre for you. You may also pick “random genre” to generate a playlist with songs from a random category.

MusicScape

MusicScape creates a landscape based on your past listening habits. The landscape is created taking into account the mood, mode, energy, and key of your current song.

Visualify

Visualify displays your favorite tracks and musicians by month, year, and all-time in a visually attractive and easy-to-understand manner. You must first log into Spotify using your account information.

It is ideal for you if you don’t want to deal with the technical aspects of your data but still want an idea of how your music preferences changed over time.

Last.fm

When you link your Spotify profile to a Last.fm account, you may get access to useful information about your listening habits and compare them to those of thousands of other people.

You can browse through various music genres and moods to discover new bands. You may also check out certain geographical regions and nations to see which songs are the most popular.

Finally, Last.fm has a spiking list of the most popular songs right now that are trending as a tool to help you narrow down your search for the most popular ones at present.

Run BPM

Run BPM is a customizable website that uses your Spotify data to generate and filter your playlist. You can use the site even if you don’t have a Spotify account.

It uses energy levels, a happiness meter, danceability, and a BPM range to arrange your tracks. You may simply save your playlist and start a new one.

It has a user-friendly design and appealing aesthetics that permeate into its platform. It’s worth a look.

Spotify Stats: Funny side is there too

In our opinion, any kind of processing of data is fun, but these sites take it from a slightly more funny perspective.

Receiptify 

Receiptify is a software that prints out a “receipt” containing your top ten favorite tracks, as determined by the program. You may have it list your current favorite songs from the previous month, six months, or all time.

It’s a simple gimmick, but it’s perfect for sharing on social media quickly.

Zodiac Affinity

If you’re a lover of astrology, you’ll like Zodiac Affinity. It determines which five of your preferred songs are compatible with various star signs, and we have no idea what the rules are here.

How Bad Is Your Spotify

For its AI’s sassy demeanor and searing hot takes, the “How Bad Is Your Spotify” challenge went viral in 2020. The site sniffs through your favorite artists and songs, asks you a few questions, and then tortures you with merciless taunts. It might become extremely filthy.

How Bad Is Your Spotify will identify a category you match into, regardless of how strange your preferences are. Just don’t take it to heart — it’s just a machine.

Conclusion

In the contemporary age, streaming music services such as Spotify have become commonplace. They are more convenient than ever, and with Spotify playlists, users can quickly build a playlist of their favorite songs.

Several fantastic websites and applications are available to assist you in making the ideal playlist for any mood or occasion. Whether you want to analyze your listening habits, pick songs based on energy levels or BPM, or explore a visual music landscape, there is a platform that can help you.

Here is what “The State of European Tech 2018”, a data-driven analytical report by Atomico reveals about the factors that are accelerating the growth of tech in the European economy

The comparison of Europe’s tech scene with Silicon Valley in the U.S and Asia (particularly China) has been a topic of debate for long criticising not only the lack of consumer-tech companies in EU, but also the mere lack of tech innovation supported by EU policies.  

Amidst this cynicism, there are numbers which tell a story of constant progress in the European tech economy and break many myths of the past. Lack of VC funding is not a problem anymore and tech workforce in EU is on the rise. The State of European Tech 2018, a data-driven analytical report by Atomico states that while Europe’s overall economy and traditional industries are stuck in the doldrums, booming tech represents the best hope for growth. Tech firms are powering job creation and ambitious founders are tackling some of the world’s biggest problems. All of that has members of the ecosystem optimistic – except in the U.K. where sentiment is not at the same levels as elsewhere.

Some of the key findings of the report mention:

• The amount invested in Europe’s technology ecosystem is $23bn in 2018, up from just $5bn in 2013.
• There were four tech IPOs or direct listings of European tech companies in 2018 that reached valuations of more than $5B on opening day, including Europe’s largest ever venture-backed publicly-listed tech company, Spotify.
• In total, Europe contributed three of the top 10 largest tech IPOs globally of 2018.

Chris Grew, Partner, Technology Companies, Group Orrick says, “There has been a nearly five-fold growth in European venture capital investment in the last five years. There are five times the number of unicorns – with at least 17 new billion dollar plus companies added in the past year alone. The European tech sector has produced nearly four times the job growth rate of the general economy, resulting in a talent pool of programmers and STEM researchers surpassing that of the United States. At Orrick, we see it in our practice every day as we have helped founders, investors and corporate venture clients raise or deploy more than $3.7 billion across Europe over the past year.” He mentions that as a global tech law firm, they are not surprised to see investors from around the world chasing strong returns from their European investments. While U.S. investment returned to 2016 levels after another record-breaking performance last year, investment from Asia continued to grow.

Here are the factors (according to the report) driving this high growth for European tech:

Powering Workforce Growth

Tom Wehmeier, Partner, Atomico says, “Last year we found that Europe was experiencing a ‘Battle Royale’ for talent. This year was the year Europe figured out how to effectively mobilise its deep pools of talent. The tech sector is attracting more participants – whether measured by the healthy increase in professional developers or the uptick in talented executives moving into tech from other sectors. What is interesting is that the developer pool is growing fastest outside those countries that have historically attracted the most investment: Turkey, Spain and Russia’s pool of developers have been deepening the most rapidly. All this will lead to a massive potential upside for the wider European economy as capital eventually grows into these new communities,” he says.

Employment growth in the European economy as a whole is stalling. The European Commission’s latest forecast for 2018 employment growth implies a drop to just 1.1% year-on-year growth, a material decline from the level seen in 2017. On the other hand, Europe’s tech workforce grew 4% in 2018. It is worth comparing the EU employment growth rate to the remarkable worker population growth that powers the European tech industry.

Within Europe, the French tech worker population is growing significantly faster than Germany and UK. The rate of tech workforce across Europe is not equally distributed, with workforces in some growing much faster than others. France, for example, hit 7.3% growth in 2018, making it comfortably the fastest growing tech workforce in EU.

Tech: The Motor for GDP Growth

There is an ever-widening gap in the indexed growth rates of the tech (software) and non-tech parts of the European economy. The implication of this sustained difference in growth rates is starkly visible when looking at indexed growth of the tech parts of the European economy. Over the past 15 years, tech (software) has grown to hit 194% of its relative value in 2002. Europe’s software industry growth dramatically outpaces the rest of the European economy.

Today, the European tech (software) industry is now growing 5x faster than the rest of the economy. Over the last 10 years, many of these traditional industries upon which the European economy is so dependent have either stagnated or declined, undermining the overall rate of growth in European Gross Value Added.

The European tech (software) industry contributes around $400 billion to the European economy today, remains just a fraction of total European Gross Value Added, accounting for just 2.5 % of total European GVA.

Smiles (almost) all round in European tech

Europe’s tech ecosystem remains characterised by a strong level of growing optimism about the future.  This increase in optimism is most evident in Eastern and Southern Europe

where there is real momentum. The UK, perhaps unsurprisingly, registered the largest downturn in optimism by a wide downturn in optimism by a wide margin. There continues to be a very strong sense of optimism across the European tech ecosystem

90 per cent of the European tech community is either more optimistic about the future of European tech or maintain the same levels of optimism compared to 12 months ago. This remains the same as in 2017 when 91% of respondents were more optimistic or the same.

“ I’m definitely more optimistic than 12 months ago. I think we’re seeing a marked shift in ambition in Europe, and crucially, that’s being matched at an investor level. What’s more, the increased cost of living and hiring competition seems to have taken the blinkers off a lot of Valley-bound entrepreneurs. This can only benefit Europe.” says Rosie Dallas, Fat Llama.

Tech for Good: A European Opportunity?

There is strong agreement across all stakeholders, including within the public sector, that European tech entrepreneurs will have a bigger impact than European governments when it comes to solving important global challenges.  64 % of the public sector and policymaker respondents who agree that European technology entrepreneurs will do more to address major societal challenges than European governments.

“ Compared to the US, we seem to be a bit further ahead when it comes to sustainability. Especially when it comes to food waste and climate consciousness, both among consumers and within the food industry..Compare this with President Trump’s decision to withdraw from the Paris agreement a year ago…One thing that has influenced us at Karma is that we’ve had mission-driven, competent and successful entrepreneurs, such as Niklas Adalberth founding Norrsken Foundation, drive the agenda of using entrepreneurship to build technologies that can solve social challenges on a global scale,” says Elsa Bernadotte from Karma.

Final Thoughts

Tom Wehmeier, Partner, Atomico leaves us with a word to the naysayers and critics of European tech: irrespective of the huge strides European tech has taken in the last few years, our tech sector will continue to be compared to the performance of Silicon Valley. ”For a long time, US VC has outperformed European VC in terms of portfolio returns, but that is increasingly untrue. The latest historical performance data shows that European venture has been outperforming US venture in recent horizon periods. We believe this is a bellwether for a changing landscape. Let’s not forget that 95% of the value creation of today’s US tech sector is from companies founded 15 years ago or more and that the early tech successes of ARM, Amadeus and Ocado were not venture-backed. Given that 21 European companies have been founded and scaled to billion-dollar-plus valuations with the support of venture capital since 2010 alone, we are confident that Europe has caught up on North America’s head start, “ he concludes.

Disclaimer: The content of this article is based on a section of The State of European Tech report. The full report can be downloaded here.

Big data is being integrated into nearly every field. It should be no surprise that the multi-billion dollar music industry wants in. There are two major ways big data is already influencing the music industry: music creation and music selection. The second one, however, is making far more waves.

It’s no secret that the music industry often chooses the next hit star, and pushes them to receive more air time. Numerous studies show that people like music that sounds familiar. This means that there is a certain circular quality to pop music. The more you are forced to listen to that inescapable new song, the more you like it. Your liking it means more music of the same type will be produced. Data, however, is making the new era of music one of the most populistic.

Spotify knows what listeners like and want. The ability to listen to music is only the most basic feature of Spotify. They constant compile data and create algorithms to suggest new music to listeners. Their Discover Weekly is like a fresh mix-tape made just for you. Powered entirely by algorithms and computers, the mixes are astonishingly well put together. While a listener may not love every single suggested track, it is lightyears from the old Pandora suggestions of 2005. Songs can be broken down into specific data points that betray not just what listeners like, but why. In fact, Spotify users create some 600 GB of this data daily. But it doesn’t stop there.

Users love apps like Spotify, but companies love Shazam, Next Big Sound, Find, and the appropriately titled HitPredictor. While Shazam is ancient in technology years, it has hit its stride among execs and professionals. Rather than scanning a library of whole songs, each song is put through an algorithm that makes it easy to find. The app has been downloaded over 500 million times and over 30 million songs have been shazamed. Yes, that is a lot of a data—natural, unsolicited data. Data that shows what songs listeners want to connect with.

Following Shazam searches can even show exactly how a song has spread. That’s right. Companies don’t just know that a song is becoming popular but where. When analyzed correctly, these numbers can easily predict the upcoming artists and songs. This is a powerful tool for labels who want real proof of a hit, rather than hunches and hopes.

Last year, HitPredicor accurately predicted 48 of the top 50 hits. Thanks to their algorithms, there is no longer a need for talent scouts to go crawling through bars, or even overly rely on their “gut.” Proposals are handed in attached to a real-world indicator of popularity (like Shazam search numbers).

This could lead to some very unexpected discoveries. Artists who would otherwise never make it out of their state are much more visible to big, global companies. However, this also creates a large degree of concern among musicians. Allowing listeners to pick the next artists actually means creating a lot of the same music. Because listeners are happy to hear sounds and styles they already know, we are happily creating a bubble of louder, less diverse music. It seems data-driven music has created an incredible paradox. Any song from any singer now has the capacity to get discovered, yet we are fueling an unusually homogenous series of artists and albums. Only time will tell what the data-driven radio will bring.

Using data and algorithms to create perfect music

The logical extension of data-driven music is data-created music. Don’t just wait around for the next big star to pop up—engineer them from scratch. For many, this is a horrifying, terrible idea. What if the art of music creation could be entirely removed from the process? A recent study on human- versus robot-made music may restore faith in humanity’s future.

Researchers from both Harvard University and the Max Planck Institute in Göttingen, Germany studied a drummer and his drumming patterns (among other subjects). The goal was to find what made the rhythm more or less appealing to listeners. Of course, a computer program could produce the same rhythm. Moreover, it could produce the rhythm perfectly, with zero flaws. However, the human ear tends to dislike that absolute perfection. It simply sounds off. This is why such programs add a “humanizing” option to change the music enough to make it imperfect. Attempting to add random bouts of imperfection to make the music humanized, however, does not generally succeed.

The team found that human error was not quite random. Changes in tempo revolve around the human clock. There are rhythms in the human brain that don’t exist in a computer. This is what physicists suspect to be the culprit behind the human distaste for purely digitized music. Moreover, the result is that human-made errors don’t occur at random. They have long-range correlations. Holger Hennig, first author of the study, explained this perfectly for the Harvard gazette.

“For example, the drummer plays ahead of the beat for 30 consecutive beats, while half a minute earlier, he tended to play slightly behind the metronome clicks. These trends are pleasant to the ear.”

However, even if data were to be pulled from around the globe to create the infectious rhythm of a sure-fire radio hit, it would not necessarily mean success. Even after pinpointing the exact details of desired rhythmic fluctuations, this did not mean human ears accepted algorithm-based music (or humanization) as preferable. Rather, the magical numbers remain elusive.

There is one example of data-created music. The “Data-Driven DJ” is a project intended to, in the DJ’s own words, “explore new experiences around data consumption beyond the written and visual forms by taking advantage of music’s temporal nature and capacity to alter one’s mood.” By transforming numbers and charts into sound, a new genre of music is created. Thus far, he has made music out of the global refugee movement, Beijing’s smog and air quality data, as well as data on race and attraction. This idea is intriguing, as high art forms often trickle down into pop culture. While this is a highly specialized use of data, the Data-Driven DJ may be driving much more in the long run.

It seems music creation will remain in the hands of musicians for some time to come. Data and analysis has reinvigorated the music industry by measuring responses. It makes it easier than ever to see how populations are responding to new music. Data-driven creation, however, has not changed excessively. Yes, music companies can use data to infer what style will be the most profitable to fund, but data is not creating music from scratch. Yet.

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Erik likes to work with smart people and deliver great software. After 5+ years at Spotify, he recently left for new and exciting startup in NYC where he is leading the engineering team.

At Spotify, Erik built up and lead the team responsible for music recommendations and machine learning. They designed and built many large scale machine learning algorithms we use to power the recommendation features: the radio feature, the “Discover”​ page, “Related Artists”​, and much more. He also authored Luigi, which is a workflow manager in Python with 3,000+ stars on Github – used by Foursquare, Quora, Stripe, Asana, and more.

Follow Peadar’s series of interviews with data scientists here.

What project have you worked on do you wish you could go back to, and do better?

Like… everything I ever built. But I think that’s part of the learning experience. Especially working with real users, you never know what’s going to happen. There’s no clear problem formulation, no clear loss function, lots of various data sets to use. Of course you’re going to waste too much time doing something that turns out to nothing. But research is that way. Learning stuff is what matters and kind of by definition you have to do stupid shit before you learned it. Sorry for a super unclear answer 🙂

The main thing I did wrong for many years was I built all this cool stuff but never really made it into prototypes that other people could play around with. So I learned something very useful about communication and promoting your ideas.

What advice do you have to younger analytics professionals and in particular PhD students in the Sciences?

Write a ton of code. Don’t watch TV. 🙂

[bctt tweet=”Write a ton of code. Don’t watch TV. :)”]

I really think showcasing cool stuff on Github and helping out other projects is a great way to learn and also to demonstrate market validation of your code.

Seriously, I think everyone can kick ass at almost anything as long as you spend a ridiculous amount of time on it. As long as you’re motivated by something, use that by focusing on something 80% of your time being awake.

I think people generally get motivated by coming up with various proxies for success. So be very careful about choosing the right proxies. I think people in academia often validate themselves in terms of things people in the industry don’t care about and things that doesn’t necessarily correlate with a successful career. It’s easy to fall down into a rabbit hole and become extremely good at say deep learning (or anything), but at a company that means you’re just some expert that will have a hard time getting impact beyond your field. Looking back on my own situation I should have spent a lot more time figuring out how to get other people excited about my ideas instead of perfecting ML algorithms (maybe similar to last question).

What do you wish you knew earlier about being a data scientist?

I don’t consider myself a data scientist so not sure 🙂

There’s a lot of definitions floating around about what a data scientist does. I have had this theory for a long time but just ran into this blog post the other day. I think it summarizes my own impression pretty well. There’s two camps, one is the “business insights” side, one is the “production ML engineer” side. I managed teams at Spotify on both sides. It’s very different.

If you want to understand the business and generate actionable insights, then in my experience you need pretty much no knowledge of statistics and machine learning. It seems like people think with ML you can generate these super interesting insights about a business but in my experience it’s very rare. Sometimes we had people coming in writing a master’s thesis about churn prediction and you can get a really high AUC but it’s almost impossible to use that model for anything. So it really just boils down to doing lots of highly informed A/B tests. And above all, having deep empathy for user behavior. What I mean is you really need to understand how your users think in order to generate hypotheses to test.

For the other camp, in my experience understanding backend development is super important. I’ve seen companies where there’s a “ML research team” and a “implementation team” and there’s a “throw it over the fence” attitude, but it doesn’t work. Iteration cycles get 100x larger and incentives just get misaligned. So I think for anyone who wants to build cool ML algos, they should also learn backend and data engineering.

How do you respond when you hear the phrase ‘big data’?

Love it. Seriously, there’s this weird anti-trend of people bashing big data. I throw up every time I see another tweet like “You can get a machine with 1TB of ram for $xyz. You don’t have big data”. I almost definitely had big data at Spotify. We trained models with 10B parameters on 10TB data sets all the time. There is a lot of those problems in the industry for sure. Unfortunately sampling doesn’t always work.

The other thing I think those people get wrong is the production aspect of it. Things like Hadoop forces your computation into fungible units that means you don’t have to worry about computers breaking down. It might be 10x slower than if you had specialized hardware, but that’s fine because you can have 100 teams running 10000 daily jobs and things rarely crash – especially if you use Luigi. 🙂

But I’m sure there’s a fair amount of snake oil Hadoop consultants who convince innocent teams they need it.

The other part of “big data” is that it’s at the far right of the hype cycle. Have you been to a Hadoop conference? It’s full of people in oversized suits talking about compliance now. At some point we’ll see deep learning or flux architecture or whatever going down the same route.

How do you go about framing a data problem – in particular, how do you avoid spending too long, how do you manage expectations etc. How do you know what is good enough?

Ideally you can iterate on it with real users and see what the impact is. If not, you need to introduce some proxy metrics. That’s a whole art form in itself.

It’s good enough when the opportunity cost outweighs the benefit 🙂 I.e. the marginal return of time invested is lower than for something else. I think it’s good to keep a backlog full of 100s of ideas so that you can prioritize based on expected ROI at any time. I don’t know if that’s a helpful answer but prioritization is probably the hardest problem to solve and it really just boils down to having some rules of thumb.

(image credit: Jer Thorp, CC2.0)

Over the past few years, music subscription services have seen incredible growth, with revenues up by 51 percent in 2013 and the $1 billion threshold crossed. In contrast to that, over a decade of stagnation has seen Europe’s overall record sales grow by just 4.3 percent. Undoubtedly, services like Spotify, Deezer, Grooveshark and Pandora have all played a major role in maintaining the industry’s steady progress.

These companies have revolutionised the way people listen to music – especially Spotify which delivered about 4.5 billion hours listening time in 2013 alone – and it is beyond doubt that their use of big data has played a pivotal role in the way the industry has evolved. These streaming services use data not only to enhance engagement and provide a personalised experience, but also to discover upcoming artists and make forecasts on their potential for success.

Spotify, which is allegedly preparing for an IPO later this year, is a great example of the power of big data analytics. With over 6 million paying subscribers, 1.5 billion playlists and more than 20 million songs, an estimated 1.5 terabytes of compressed data is produced daily. More poignantly, the company has one of the biggest commercial Hadoop clusters in Europe, with over 694 heterogeneous nodes running approximately 7,000 jobs a day.

Interestingly, the company used its collection of data last year to see whether the decisions of the Recording Academy (the people who vote on the winners at the Grammy Awards) reflected the habits the public on the streaming service. Out of 8 categories, Spotify attempted to predict the winners by looking at its users’ data (listening habits, subscribers to a playlist, popularity of an artist, etc.) The accuracy? 67%. That figure may seem low, but you should consider how many nominees had to be considered.

Spotify’s predictive capabilities will only improve. In March, the company spent $200 million to acquire Echo Nest, one of a number of companies involved in music analytics and recommendation technology. The company mines data from millions of songs and has compiled about a trillion data points from 35 million songs by 2.5 million artists.

As Echo Nest’s co-founder, Brian Whitman, describes:

“We crawl the web constantly, scanning over 10 million music related pages a day….Every word anyone utters on the Internet about music goes through our systems that look for descriptive terms, noun phrases and other text and those terms bucket up into what we call “cultural vectors” or “top terms.””

Examples pertaining to big data analytics are not confined to Spotify; they are widespread across the industry. Earlier this year The Guardian reported on music analytics firm, MusicMetric, was able to predict with 90% accuracy who would be number one three months in the future. Describing the process involved, Gregory Mead, the chief executive behind Semetric (the company behind MusicMetric), said:

“It’s no different to a sensor in a factory that’s detecting vibrations on a machining piece and when the vibrations start vibrating in a particular way they can detect that it’s going to fail….For a big artist like Katy Perry, there’s about 19,000 different signals we have just for that artist.

With this data, MusicMetrics can turn those “signals into useful information a manager can use when deciding where to take their artist on tour, or that a talent scout can use when deciding which recommendations are worth following up.” (Source)

Similarly, Shazam utilises a combination of critics’ reviews and the number of times people look up a song to judge an artist’s popularity. In so doing, it can predict which songs, and in which cities, a particular artist will gain recognition.

For example, when ID tags showed up in Shazam’s database identifying that the rapper SoMo’s single “Rise” was being searched in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and Phoenix, the artist’s label, Republic Records, made the decision to push the song to other major cities in the States — landing it in iTunes’ R&B Top 10 a short while after. As Peter Szabo, Shazam’s head of music, notes:

“Our data has shown that we can typically predict 33 days in advance what’s going to be at the top of the Billboard Hot 100. It’s fun to see the epidemic start to spread — the growth of these songs, starting in a city.”

Unsurprisingly, Shazam’s predictive capabilities are garnering serious corporate attention. Warner Music Group signed a deal with the app this February, and interest from record companies has reached a level that Shazam is considering charging companies for additional statistical insights.

Music is becoming yet another industry to embrace data as a powerful resource. Where an artist’s success would once have relied on time and some degree of luck, the music industry is now leveraging data science to harness consumer insights and encourage emerging talent at its most nascent stages.

Follow @DataconomyMedia

Furhaad Shah – Editor

Furhaad worked as a researcher/writer for The Times of London and is a regular contributor for the Huffington Post. He studied philosophy on a dual programme with the University of York (U.K.) and Columbia University (U.S.) He is a native of London, United Kingdom.

Email: furhaad@dataconomy.ru

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(Image Credit: Rich Jacques)