Spotify appears to be finally poised to introduce a premium HiFi audio tier, ending years of speculation. In 2017, rumors about a Spotify HiFi tier started circulating, and although the company initially announced plans to launch such a feature in 2021, it later stepped back. However, according to Bloomberg, Spotify might now be ready to unveil a high-fidelity plan internally referred to as “Supremium,” which would be its most expensive tier.
The primary objective behind this move is to generate additional revenue and address investor demands for price increases. Spotify reportedly delayed the rollout of the plan in 2021 when its main competitors, Apple Music and Amazon Music, began offering the same feature for free in their standard plans.
Furthermore, in an effort to enhance its regular Premium offering, Spotify might also expand access to audiobooks. This could be accomplished through a monthly allocation of free listening hours or by providing a specific number of books, with the option to purchase more. Currently, audiobooks on Spotify are only available for individual purchase.
It remains unclear whether Spotify’s audio quality would be lossless, reaching up to 24-bit and 192kHz, as is the case with Apple Music and Amazon Music. Lossless audio typically does not work with Bluetooth speakers or headphones, including Apple’s AirPods and AirPods Max, due to the high bandwidth requirements. Thus, users would need a wired or WiFi setup to enjoy lossless audio.
Specific pricing details have not been disclosed yet. While Spotify has maintained its Premium plan at $9.99 per month in the US, Apple and Amazon have increased their rates to $10.99. During a recent earnings call, CEO Daniel Ek mentioned that the company strives to strike a balance between subscriber growth and revenue, resulting in pricing variations by region depending on the company’s objectives. Earlier this month, Spotify also announced a two percent reduction in staff after a six percent workforce reduction in January.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Spotify HiFi
What is the Spotify HiFi tier and when will it be launched?
The Spotify HiFi tier is a premium audio offering with higher-quality sound. While the exact launch date is unknown, rumors suggest that Spotify may finally introduce it soon.
How does Spotify plan to generate more revenue with the HiFi tier?
By introducing a higher-priced HiFi tier, Spotify aims to increase its revenue. This move comes in response to investor demands for price hikes and to compete with rivals like Apple Music and Amazon Music.
Will Spotify expand its audiobook access?
Yes, Spotify is considering enhancing its regular Premium offering by providing expanded access to audiobooks. Users may be offered a certain number of free listening hours per month or have the option to purchase specific audiobooks.
Will the audio quality of Spotify HiFi be lossless?
It is unclear if Spotify’s HiFi tier will offer lossless audio quality up to 24-bit and 192kHz, as Apple Music and Amazon Music do. Lossless audio typically requires a wired or WiFi setup due to high bandwidth requirements.
How will pricing be affected by the introduction of the HiFi tier?
The pricing details for Spotify’s HiFi tier have not been revealed yet. While Spotify’s Premium plan currently costs $9.99/month in the US, Apple Music and Amazon Music have raised their rates. Spotify’s pricing strategy varies by region, balancing subscriber growth and revenue goals.
What other recent developments have occurred at Spotify?
Earlier this month, Spotify announced a two percent reduction in staff after a previous six percent layoff in January. These actions may be part of the company’s efforts to optimize its operations and adapt to changing market dynamics.
More about Spotify HiFi
- Bloomberg: Spotify May Launch HiFi Tier
- The Verge: Spotify HiFi Delayed
- TechCrunch: Spotify’s Audiobooks Plans
- Apple Music Lossless Audio
- Amazon Music HD
- Spotify Official Website
4 comments
i hope spotify doesn’t hike up their prices too much with this hifi thing. $9.99/month is already a decent price for premium, and i don’t wanna pay more just for better sound quality. fingers crossed they keep it affordable!
audiobooks on spotify? count me in! i’ve been waitin for them to expand their offerings. if they give us a certain number of free hours or let us buy more books, that would be awesome. can’t wait to listen to my favorite books while jammin’ to music on spotify!
interesting move by spotify to cut staff after layoffs earlier this year. they must be makin some big changes internally. let’s see if this helps them optimize their operations and stay competitive in the music streaming market.
spotify’s gotta step up its game, man! apple music and amazon music already offer lossless audio for free, so spotify better not charge too much for their hifi plan. competition is tough, but i’m excited to see what they bring to the table!