Spotify introduces direct messages, how to send them

The streaming platform launches a new feature that allows you to send music recommendations, podcasts and audiobooks directly to your contacts, integrating into a single space what currently happens on chat, social networks and external services

Spotify has announced the arrival of Messages, a messaging feature that allows users to exchange audio recommendations without having to rely on third-party apps. The new feature, available this week in select markets, is accessible on mobile devices for all Free and Premium accounts aged 16 and over.

To use direct messages, simply tap the share icon while listening to a song, podcast, or audiobook on the playback screen, then select a contact to start a conversation with. You can send content to those who share the same Spotify plan as you or to people already connected through collaborative features like Jams, Blend, and shared playlists. All sent or received content will be collected in a Messages inbox, accessible from the profile icon in the top left, so you can easily find it again.

The platform emphasizes that messages are protected by "industrial-grade" encryption and that conversations will be exclusively one-on-one, with text and emoji support. Users can decide whether to accept or reject requests, block unwanted senders, or disable the feature entirely. It will also be possible to report suspicious content, messages, or accounts: Spotify will proactively check for illegal or harmful material and review reported chats.

It's not yet clear whether artist accounts will be able to use messages to interact with fans, but the company specifies that the new feature is intended to make sharing content already available on Instagram, WhatsApp, TikTok, and other platforms more immediate, rather than replacing it. The fact remains that, with this feature also available to free users, who are usually subject to severe limitations, Spotify is paving the way for a more socially-focused listening experience.