Spotify has updated again, but users aren’t happy about it
By ForGeeks Spotify started out as a music streaming service, but in recent years its strategy has shifted toward podcasts and video content. Now the company is taking the next step by adding video directly to the app’s home screen. But not all users are happy with the turnaround.
Video podcasts now right on the home screen
According to Spotify’s announcement, video podcast recommendations will now be placed right below your shortcuts on the home page. It’s not just the latest episode of your favorite show, but a personalized selection of new podcasts in video format – ostensibly «Picked for you». The company says early feedback has shown an increase in engagement, with users more likely to save and like new content.
According to the company, early feedback has shown an increase in engagement, with users more likely to save and like new content.
Till then, on Reddit, users are complaining about the update. Some are unhappy that Spotify is “trying to be an app for everything”, while others are concerned about possible implications for teenagers – such as increased screen time. There are also more serious complaints: Spotify’s algorithms sometimes fail to filter content in time, and recommendations can include adult material re-uploaded to the platform.
Spotify copies YouTube: comments, tracks and links
As part of its video strategy, Spotify has also revamped its commenting system, now featuring tracks where creators can interact with the audience. The new interface is noticeably reminiscent of YouTube. Below the comments, links to content mentioned in the release – whether it’s music, other podcasts or audiobooks – are now displayed.
The Following section is the new replacement for New Episodes
The podcasts section has a new “Following” tab that chronologically displays the latest episodes of subscribed shows. It replaces the old New Episodes playlist, but has lost a few key features. Users note that it’s no longer possible to hide episodes or mark them as listened to, as was previously the case.
Despite criticism, growth continues
Although the updates have displeased a portion of its audience, Spotify continues to gain momentum. At the end of the first quarter of 2025, the company reported a gain of 5 million premium subscribers, a record high since 2020. The total number of subscribers has reached 268 million.
The story Spotify upgraded again, but users aren’t happy about it was first published on ITZine.ru.
