Spotify is finally rolling out lossless audio streaming, offering up to 24-bit/44.1 kHz FLAC quality, to premium subscribers in over 50 countries through October, fulfilling a promise first made in 2021 after significant delays. This feature, covering nearly its entire 100-million-song library, allows Spotify to address a long-standing feature gap with competitors like Apple Music and Amazon Music, the latter of which offers lossless streaming for free, intensifying competition in the premium audio streaming market.
Spotify (SPOT) is finally executing on its long-delayed promise to launch lossless audio streaming, a feature first announced in 2021. The rollout provides premium subscribers with up to 24-bit/44.1 kHz FLAC quality audio, covering nearly its entire 100-million-song library. This launch is primarily a defensive strategic move designed to close a significant feature gap with key competitors. Apple Music (AAPL) and Amazon Music (AMZN) have offered lossless audio since 2021 and 2019, respectively, with Amazon notably including it for free with its standard subscription. By integrating this feature into the existing premium plan rather than a new, more expensive tier, Spotify is achieving feature parity without creating a new revenue stream. The implementation has technical limitations, such as being unavailable over Bluetooth, a common industry challenge. While the launch is a positive product development that may enhance user retention among audiophiles, its delayed arrival means it neutralizes a competitive disadvantage rather than creating a new competitive edge.
AI-powered research, real-time alerts, and portfolio analytics for institutional investors.
Request a DemoOverall Sentiment
moderately positive
Sentiment Score
0.30
Ticker Sentiment
