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Spotify is currently testing a new type of ads which might give rise to mixed feelings in users. The feature is called Sponsored Songs, and is an attempt to promote new singles among listeners. This type of sponsored content has already been rolled out on Spotify’s free tier, but it’s not permanent yet.
Spotify offers a chance for labels to present new music
Spotify wanted to allow labels to promote new artists and songs and make sure users actually listened to the singles, so they introduced Sponsored Songs. It consists of new musical content which appears randomly among the tracks of the playlists you are following. If you enjoy the song, you also have the option to save it and keep it in your playlist.
Some users might find this bothering. However, Spotify took care not to make them extremely obtrusive. These Sponsored Songs are designed to suit the listener’s tastes, so you will receive a recommendation only if it fits with the rest of your playlist.
If you still are bothered by this content, you can always turn the option off. Go to the Settings tab, select Display Options on the desktop version, or Sponsored Content on the mobile version, and disable the musical ads. However, this option is not tested on all users, so you might not even receive Sponsored Songs.
Sponsored Songs might soon bring revenue to Spotify
There is no information on how much the service might be charging labels for displaying this content. However, this is an important hint that Spotify is looking for some monetary benefits as a result of this feature.
Despite facing critics from the users, Sponsored Songs could be a useful feature. First of all, listeners can get to discover new artists or new songs which, if they are true music enthusiasts, is a great advantage. Also, labels and artists can also obtain great benefits. Apart from more exposure, new fans also mean possible merchandise and concert ticket purchases.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
