Spotify might let popular artists restrict songs to paying subscribers

A new report has surfaced claiming Spotify might be bending to pressure from pure-pay competition like Apple Music. There are claims they are considering limiting access to music from select artists to paying customers only. This new “windowing” policy will supposedly restrict certain albums to Spotify users who pay for premium. At the moment, musicians need to release their music both for paying and free users of the service. Spotify has reportedly informed music executives about said plan.

The streaming service could test this out to see how it will affect subscriber numbers and new sign-ups. The Wall Street Journal reports Spotify currently has around 20 million paying customers and another 80 million users who listen using ad-supported, free method. There were supposedly plans to window Coldplay’s upcoming album Head Full of Dreams but negotiations fell through after the band wasn’t able to guarantee it won’t be available on other free platforms like YouTube.

Source: Wall Street Journal | Via: Apple Insider

Spotify Running comes to Android

Spotify Running was introduced a couple months ago for iOS users. Now, Android users will get to use the feature as well. This section allows the app to create running playlists based on how you’re moving. To access it in the app, you need to head to the menu screen and select the Running option. From there you pick a playlist and start moving. The app will detect your tempo and base the songs it plays on your speed.

Source: Lifehacker | Download: iTunes App Store (Free) + Google Play Store (Free)

Spotify rumoured to be considering Premium-only music content

One of Spotify’s main selling points has to be the ability to listen to the latest tracks for free, even if you did have to listen to ads every couple of songs. But that might change in the future. Spotify is rumoured to be having certain songs or albums made available to paying Premium subscribers amidst reports that they are being pressured by major labels like Sony Warner, and Universal ahead of its October 1^st renewal deadline. It’s said that the CEOs of Sony and Universal are against the ad-based tiers as they think it devalues their catalogs and generate less revenue.

One possibility that could happen is a popular album will be available for listening for the free users for a limited amount of time or they can only listen to a couple of songs from the album. According to reports, the transition might happen early next year, giving Spotify time to work out its deals and update its apps. Now, if you’re a free subscriber and this will happen, will this be enough to make you consider moving to the Premium tier?

Source: Digital Music News | Via: Apple Insider

Nike+ app integrates Spotify Premium with Pace Stations

Here’s a quick update from Nike. Its Nike+ Running app on iOS now supports Spotify Premium. This means you can stream your favorite tunes right on the sports brand’s app. The two companies have collaborated to introduce Pace Stations. It draws music from Spotify’s library and helps keep you motivated for your run. It does this by having you put in your desired pace in the app and musical preference. The app will calculate beats per minute and create a 100-song playlist to push you to your pace. It’ll let you know if you’re stepping in beat. There’s no word yet though if Android users will also be getting this treatment.

Source: Nike | Via: Digital Trends | Download: Apple App Store (Free)