Spotify spotted testing out new 'Car Mode' design

It looks like Spotify is trying to revamp its Car Mode. App researcher Jane Manchun Wong spotted the changes. The Car Mode home page is getting larger grids for recommended playlists, a redesigned navigation bar, and a new banner that promotes Spotify control using Google Assistant. The player UI is also getting a new look with larger buttons to make it easier to control the app. 

According to Wong, other features Spotify is testing include a new animation for new likes and allowing free users to play content offline for 30 minutes a day. Offline listening is currently only available to its Premium subscribers.

With this potential update hitting the app, it looks like Spotify is cozying up to Google. The streaming service recently launched a free Google Nest Mini giveaway for Premium users.

Spotify Canada offers free Google Nest Mini to Premium users

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If you're an existing Spotify Premium subscriber and want a free Google Nest Mini, you're in luck. The music streaming service is giving away a free Google Nest Mini to qualified users. The offer ends on September 30, 2020, or until supplies last, while the codes expire on October 31, 2020.

As expected, not all Premium subscribers qualify. If you've redeemed a Google smart speaker from Spotify before or have a Family Plan or Partner account, you don't qualify for the freebie. It's also not available to those who are still in the trial period of their Premium account.

Update on Saturday, August 29, 2020 at 8:57AM by Nicole Batac

We were just informed that this promo is open to eligible new and existing Spotify Premium users. And that Family and Duo Premium users can also redeem it. But only the master account holder can redeem the offer.

Spotify, Riot Games sign 'League of Legends' esports partnership

League of Legends hub on Spotify

Spotify inks its first multi-year partnership with game developer Riot Games, who is behind the highly popular title League of Legends. The music streaming service will be LoL's official and exclusive audio-streaming partner for global events. Spotify will offer a League of Legends esports hub on its apps that contains "new and existing music, podcasts, and playlists inspired by the gaming community."

The two companies will launch several LoL podcasts, starting with Untold Stories: Top Moments from Worlds. It's a nine-episode series leading up to the 10th League of Legends World Championship this fall. There will also be a behind-the-scenes look at creating the Worlds Anthem through the Worlds Anthem Takeover on the app. The track is the game's hero song of the year, and it will be released alongside a "bespoke music video." The theme will be performed during the opening ceremony of the World Championship Finals. 

Spotify desktop app now lets you start a Chromecast session

The much-requested option to start a Chromecast stream from Spotify's desktop app is now available. It works from both Windows and Mac desktop apps. Previously, you were only able to control Chromecast streams that started from Spotify's Android or iOS apps using Spotify Connect. Now you no longer need this workaround. It's available in the desktop app version 1.1.38. All you need to do is head to the "Devices Available" icon to see available Chromecast devices.

Source: 9to5Google