Spotify is testing the removal of a popular feature from its free tier, causing disappointment among users. The feature in question is the ability to view song lyrics within the app, which has mysteriously disappeared for some users on the ad-supported tier. Instead of displaying lyrics, a message prompts users to “enjoy lyrics on Premium” and provides a link to subscribe to the premium service.
Spotify has confirmed that it is testing this idea with a limited number of users in multiple markets. The purpose of this test is to encourage more people to upgrade to a paid subscription and help the company generate profit. Spotify reported a loss in its last quarter, with its balance sheet coming under pressure due to substantial investments in podcasts and severance payments after layoffs earlier this year.
While there is no guarantee that lyrics will be permanently removed from the free tier, Spotify’s aim is to increase subscriptions. Currently, Spotify Premium costs $10.99 per month for an Individual account and $14.99 per month for the Duo option. A Family account for up to six people is priced at $16.99 per month, and students can avail of a Premium subscription for $5.99 per month. The free, ad-supported tier has limitations on the mobile app, such as shuffle mode only and a maximum of six skips per hour. The desktop version of Spotify offers a more complete experience, including intermittent ads.
While Spotify frequently offers free trials and promotions, many users are disappointed by the potential loss of the lyrics feature on the free tier. It remains to be seen whether Spotify will permanently remove this feature, but this test may provide insight into the company’s future decisions.
