Spotify's Secret Shift: Jam Sessions & More 🎶✨

Tech

🎧

Spotify Amplifies Social Music Sharing with New Features
Spotify has unveiled two key updates to its Messages platform, significantly expanding its focus on user-to-user music interaction—a core initiative initiated last year. These updates are designed to foster deeper engagement and connection amongst Spotify Premium users.

“Jam” Sessions Now Accessible for Seamless Listening
The first major addition is the introduction of “Request to Jam” sessions. Premium users can now directly invite friends and family into live listening sessions. To initiate a Jam, users tap the “Jam” icon located at the top right of a direct message thread. This triggers a “Listening Activity” sub-menu, where they select “Jam” and then “Request to Join,” instantly transforming the recipient into the session “host,” allowing both parties to collaboratively add songs to the queue in real-time. This mirrors the existing Jam functionality available on Android Auto, enhancing entertainment during longer drives.

Control Your Listening Activity with “Listening Activity”
Beyond direct session invitations, Spotify is rolling out “Listening Activity” to Messages. Activating this feature within Privacy and Social settings grants users granular control over who sees their listening activity. When enabled, users’ listening activity will be visible to designated individuals within Messages, providing a transparent and controlled way to share musical tastes.

Safety First: Safeguards Against Unwanted Contacts
Spotify has implemented essential safety measures within the Messages platform. Users must accept a Message request before engaging in text conversations, a critical safeguard designed to help users identify and avoid potentially unwanted contacts. This feature reinforces Spotify’s commitment to user security and responsible social interaction.

Expanding Reach: Android and iOS Rollouts Anticipated
While the initial launch of Central in late summer 2025 focused on a one-on-one chatting service, Spotify is broadening the platform’s reach. Features related to Messages are expected to begin appearing soon on Android and iOS devices, with a broader rollout anticipated in February, ensuring maximum accessibility for all users.

This article is AI-synthesized from public sources and may not reflect original reporting.