There's been quite a chatter in the music streaming world about Spotify's promised lossless audio support. Initially, there was speculation this high-quality sound feature would be part of the Music Pro function. Then, some later rumors indicated it would be bundled in an entirely new subscription package. However, today's insights suggest the forthcoming Spotify HiFi will not be a distinct subscription tier as initially speculated. Information derived from an anonymous informant indicates it will be an add-on to the standard plan.
According to a recent Bloomberg report, Spotify is planning to levy an extra $5 monthly charge from users for access to lossless audio. This announcement comes hot on the heels of Spotify’s decision to hike the price for its Premium Plan in the US to $11.99. If the insider reports hold true, Spotify enthusiasts will need to shell out $16.99 per month to groove to the hi-res audio format on a single subscription. This possible turn of events contradicts earlier speculations. Around September 2023, some persuasive code snippets indicated plans by Spotify to launch a new HiFi tier costing $20.
Due to reasons not revealed by Bloomberg’s source, Spotify is contemplating the add-on model. Tech enthusiasts on Google's 9To5 website believe this is Spotify’s solution to offer the HiFi tier avoiding the proposed $20 charge. Notably, Spotify is seemingly comfortable with hiking prices as they recently made their second increase within a year.
In the realm of notable features, the anonymous source further disclosed that there will be novel tools for curating playlists. Intriguingly, these tools are purported to be powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI). One such feature is designed to let users promptly create custom playlists for specific activities, dates, and even times of the year. The other will utilize in-app learning to generate song collections based on your listening habits and without direct instructions. Bloomberg's report hints at upgraded song library management, but specifics were not revealed.
While the Spotify HiFi launch date for the US market remains indeterminate, the frequency of leaks regarding this service is suggestive of an official roll-out shortly. There is also no mention of its international availability. The expected price for the Premium Plan with the lossless audio add-on in the UK and Australia could be £15.99 and AU$17.99 respectively. This, of course, is dependent on prices remaining unchanged. There are indications Spotify might hike prices outside the US too.
As with all leak-based intel, it is wise to take these details with skepticism. Tech enthusiasts can refer to TechRadar’s compilation of 2024’s best Bluetooth speakers for an enhanced music experience.
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