Meta and Spotify are reportedly testing a new feature that would allow Instagram users to continuously share the music they're listening to in real-time. This integration aims to enhance user engagement and streamline music discovery on the platform.
Continuous Music Sharing Spotted
(Source: Alessandro Paluzzi)
The new feature was first identified by reverse engineer Alessandro Paluzzi, who shared screenshots on Meta's Threads platform.
These screenshots reveal an option for users to "continuously share" their music from Spotify, with the flexibility to stop sharing at any time. This functionality aims to provide a seamless way for users to share their favorite tunes without needing manual updates.
If real-time Spotify music sharing launched, it would enhance Instagram's existing music-sharing capabilities:
Introduced in 2022, Instagram Notes already allow users to share 30-second song clips.
The new integration with Spotify could automate these posts, simplifying the process for users to share their current listening habits.
This development could further enrich the user experience by offering a more dynamic and real-time music-sharing feature.
Meta's Collaborations about Music
Collaborations Between Meta and Spotify
Meta and Spotify have a history of collaboration.
In 2021, they introduced a miniplayer on Facebook that streamed Spotify directly from the app. This new feature could further solidify their partnership and enhance user experience on both platforms.
Both companies face significant competition from Apple. Spotify and Meta have criticized Apple's App Store policies, which they argue hinder their ability to manage in-app payments and app distribution.
Additionally, Apple's App Tracking Transparency (ATT) feature has impacted Meta's advertising business, while Apple Music remains a direct competitor to Spotify.
Partnership Between Meta and Universal Music Group (UMG)
Also, Meta and Universal Music Group (UMG) have recently announced an expanded global, multi-year agreement designed to advance creative and commercial opportunities for UMG artists and Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) songwriters.
>>> Meta and Universal Music Group Expand Global Partnership
Potential Launch and User Experience
User Reactions and Expectations
It was noted that Instagram had added a "SpotifyiOS.framework" component, suggesting that the feature could be announced soon.
If successful, this real-time music-sharing capability could rival similar features on other social platforms, such as TikTok, and bring back nostalgia for older platforms like Microsoft Messenger (MSN).
Limitations and Future Prospects
Currently, the feature seems to be limited to Spotify, leaving Apple Music users out. However, the potential for future updates and broader integrations remains open.
Editor's Comments
The collaboration between Meta and Spotify could significantly enhance the social music-sharing experience on Instagram.
By automating the sharing process, users can effortlessly keep their friends updated on their musical preferences, potentially fostering deeper social connections.
However, the success of this feature will depend on user adoption and the ability to integrate with other music platforms like Apple Music.
Given the competitive landscape, this move could also intensify the rivalry between Meta, Spotify, and Apple, ultimately benefiting consumers through more innovative features.