Good news for Kenyan Spotify users after the streaming giant launched an in-app direct messaging feature for its users.
The new feature, only available to users above 16 years of age, allows the sharing of podcasts, songs and audiobooks to other users within the app.
The feature accessible from the “Now Playing” screen also includes features such as message request acceptance, user blocking and encryption as added safety features.
Before the messaging feature was added, users seeking to recommend songs had to use the “Share” feature before being redirected to other platforms to share a song, podcast or audiobook.
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The streaming giant revealed that users had been asking for an easier internal avenue for sharing content without having to leave the app and juggling between apps.
Spotify announced that it would begin rolling out the new messaging feature for both free and premium subscribers this week.
Real-time Conversations
To access the feature, users tap the "Share" icon on the "Now Playing" screen from where they are prompted to select a friend and start a conversation.
Beyond just sharing content, the feature allows for real-time conversations, as users can now share more than a link and have full-blown discussions about the music they love.
The feature also allows users to react to messages with emojis and send text responses.
In a bid to transform Spotify from a passive listening service into a social hub, the feature allows users to form communities and deepen their connections based on their shared musical tastes, a move that could be a game-changer for Kenyan artists and creators.
With easier in-app sharing, recommendations could likely be more powerful, potentially driving more streams and discovery for local talent.
This isn't Spotify's first attempt at in-app messaging. A similar feature was discontinued in 2017.
