Spotify reinstates free lyrics access after user backlash over paywall decision
Spotify has reversed its decision to place a paywall on viewing song lyrics, allowing all users, including those on the free tier, to access lyrics once again. The move comes three months after initially restricting this feature to paid subscribers, which drew significant backlash from the user community.
A Spotify spokesperson told Engadget, “At Spotify, we’re always testing and iterating. This means availability of our features can vary across tiers and between markets and devices. Over the coming weeks, we’ll be expanding Lyrics availability for Spotify Free users so more people can enjoy viewing more lyrics, globally.”
The initial restriction was seen as an attempt to push users towards Spotify's revised subscription plans. However, during the company's most recent earnings call, CEO Daniel Ek mentioned plans to enhance the experience for free users. It appears that restoring full lyrics access is part of these improvements.
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Related news
External links
- Spotify lyrics are back for free usersEngadget
- Spotify gives up on trying to charge for song lyricsThe Verge
- Spotify lyrics are again available for free users, after U-turn9to5Mac
- Spotify expands lyrics access for free usersTechCrunch
- Spotify brings back lyrics with no cap for free users after facing backlashNeowin
- Missing Spotify's lyrics? They're coming back for free users again, with no restrictionsTechRadar
Comments
There's some marketing jargon if I've ever read it.
“At Spotify, we’re always testing and iterating." Translation: We removed free lyrics because our company is so awesome. We've done nothing wrong.
"This means availability of our features can vary across tiers and between markets and devices." Translation: Nothing to see here. Business as usual. What were we talking about again? Oh yeah, we refuse to name it as it could imply failure, regret, a bad decision, or negative user feedback. Avoid accepting responsibility at all costs.
"Over the coming weeks, we’ll be expanding Lyrics availability for Spotify Free users so more people can enjoy viewing more lyrics, globally.” Translation: We're doing you a favor! We are so generous!