High-quality audio streaming could be forthcoming for Spotify users.
What you need to be aware of
– Lossless audio has been identified in the Spotify app code (v1.2.66) and user interface, suggesting the feature is finally on its way.
– It is anticipated that this feature will be available exclusively to Spotify Premium subscribers and will accommodate high-resolution playback (up to 24-bit/44.1 kHz).
– This advancement corroborates previous reports regarding a “Music Pro” add-on, indicating that Spotify is focusing on high-quality audio.
Spotify has yet to launch lossless streaming, and hints of it date back to 2021. However, if the current indications are to be believed, the feature is poised for a timely release.
The clues emerged via Spicetify’s account on X (as reported by The Verge). It reveals that the newest Spotify version 1.2.66 contains code referencing the lossless capability.
According to the images shared, lossless mode appears in the “Streaming quality” section of audio quality settings on the platform. It notes that using lossless mode will consume up to 1GB of data per hour and will support playback up to 24-bit/44.1 kHz — utilizing FLAC and Widevine. The code also suggests availability on Spotify Connect and the Web Player.
Users should also understand that this feature seems to be limited to Spotify Premium subscribers. The Spicetify post additionally notes a new Enhance Headphones feature that the music platform appears to be developing. However, the exact functionality of this feature has yet to be confirmed.
Anticipation since 2021
The news about the Lossless feature poised for Spotify has circulated since the initial announcement made by the company in 2021. Although progress has been slow, a recent Bloomberg article indicated Spotify’s intentions to introduce a new add-on subscription tier called Music Pro. This tier is designed to be a cost-effective enhancement, likely adding $6 to the current subscription plans.
A key component of the proposed plan, which is expected to debut this year, will include high-quality audio (HiFi) streaming alongside remixing tools, access to concert tickets, and the ability to blend tracks from various artists — supported by AI assistance.
Collectively, the emergence of the Lossless streaming option in the latest Spotify app signifies that the company is intensifying its efforts to deliver premium audio streaming to its users in the near future.
