Spotify announced Friday that it is launching a new ‘About the Song’ feature that will allow users to explore the stories behind the music they’re listening to. This feature displays short story cards that users can thumb up or down and rate.
These short, swipeable stories are condensed from third-party sources to highlight interesting details and behind-the-scenes stories.
With this new feature, Spotify gives users access to features that aren’t available on competing platforms like Apple Music.
About the Song is launching in mobile beta in English for premium users in the US, UK, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand and Australia.
Users can access the new feature through the ‘Now Playing’ screen by scrolling down on supported tracks to find the ‘Song Info’ card and then swiping to explore the story behind the track.
“Music fans know the feeling: hearing a song stops you in your tracks and immediately makes you want to know more,” Spotify wrote in a blog post. “What is the inspiration behind it and what is the meaning behind it? We believe that understanding the craft and context behind a song can deepen your connection with the music you love.”
Spotify has had a busy week, as About the Song isn’t the only feature the company has recently announced.
Yesterday, the streaming service revealed that users in the US and UK will soon be able to purchase physical copies of their favorite audiobooks directly through the app. Spotify also announced two new audiobook features, including “Page Match” and “Audiobook Summary,” which allow users to scan a page of a physical book and instantly switch to the corresponding point in the audiobook.
Earlier this week, the company introduced the ability to provide lyrics translation globally and view lyrics offline for all users, not just premium subscribers. Spotify has also moved the lyrics position so they now appear directly below the album artwork or a short, looping video that plays along with the music.
Earlier today, Spotify announced that it is revamping its Developer Mode API, which developers use to test third-party applications. Changes include a required premium account, a limited number of test users, and a limited set of API endpoints.
