Is Spotify’s long-delayed HiFi streaming tier lastly nearing its debut? A survey served to not less than one consumer means that the corporate hasn’t forgotten about it, and HiFi is likely to be packaged into a brand new dearer “Platinum” plan that may include different perks.
Over on Reddit, a former Spotify subscriber shared screenshots of a survey that they have been lately requested to take. The questionnaire requested whether or not they would rejoin / swap to the service primarily based on new plan tiers. The traditional free and particular person choices are proven, however the survey additionally mentions a $19.99 Platinum tier that may carry over the usual paid advantages whereas including HiFi and further options known as Studio Sound, Headphone Tuner, Audio Insights, Library Pro, and Playlist Pro. The new plan would additionally restrict advert interruptions for Spotify’s library of unique podcasts.
I messaged the Reddit consumer who took the survey, who shared extra particulars on what it entailed. The survey confirmed a number of completely different variations of the Platinum plan. In one case, it additionally included entry to audiobooks, which Spotify started promoting in September. That theoretical plan bumped the value up additional.
Spotify HiFi was initially introduced in February 2021, and on the time, the corporate claimed it could roll out by the top of final yr. That by no means occurred, and Spotify has gone radio silent on the function’s standing ever since and refuses to offer any substantial updates.
Spotify appears decided to cost additional for HiFi
In the meantime, Apple has introduced lossless and high-resolution audio to Apple Music at no additional value. Some consider that this transfer caught Spotify off guard — it’s possible the corporate initially hoped to cost additional for premium sound — and led to HiFi being postponed. The survey’s thought of splitting HiFi off right into a pricier plan would help that idea. Amazon Music additionally now contains lossless streaming in its customary subscription plan.
As for the opposite options talked about within the survey, “Studio Sound” might presumably be Spotify’s branding for immersive Dolby Atmos / 360 Reality audio, however I’m simply spitballing there. It additionally appears the corporate may reserve superior library and playlist performance completely for the Platinum tier. What would that seem like? Better group? Smart playlists? Are these bonuses compelling sufficient to pay extra for? Hopefully we’ll know the complete particulars quickly sufficient.
The Verge has reached out to Spotify for remark.
