Spotify Introduces New Video Controls for Listeners

Spotify has always been about putting listeners in the driver's seat. Today, people don't just want more ways to spend their time; they want that time to be well spent. That's why, from Taste Profile to Prompted Playlist, and the expansion of managed accounts to Smart Filters, we're giving users more control over their listening experience. That belief, that time on Spotify should be intentional, personal, and rewarding, is at the core of how we build.

Spotify listeners agree, and that sense of control translates directly into value. According to a Burson survey of 8,400 respondents across 19 markets (August 27-October 3, 2025), 93% of Spotify users are excited about features that give them more control, and 92% say Spotify brings them closer to the things they love. For younger listeners, Edison Research finds that 86% of Gen Z listens to music or podcasts to help boost their mood. In a world of passive scrolling, Spotify offers something different: a more intentional experience that people can actively shape around what they love.

That's why we've been hard at work on new video controls that let users better tailor their time on Spotify, either by choosing to maintain an audio-first experience or layer in a richer, video-enhanced one. Rolling out globally starting today, Family Plan managers will be able to switch video content on or off for any plan members through their subscription settings. This is something we already offer for Family Plan managed accounts for users under the age of 13 (or equivalent age in your country), and now any Family Plan member account will have video controls.

We'll also be introducing new settings so all Premium and Basic users-whether on Individual, Duo, Family, or Student plans-and all users on our free service can control how video appears in their app. The settings update will begin rolling out to all users globally this month. This ensures that all listeners, from individuals to families, can shape an experience that feels right for them.

To access the video controls, go to Settings > Content and display, where you can easily switch Canvas looping visuals or videos for music or podcasts on or off. Once you've chosen your preferences, they'll apply on mobile, desktop, web, TV, or wherever you use Spotify. Users will still see video ads, as well as Canvas-like visuals on some audio ads. Whether you want a visual experience or an audio one, Spotify adapts to you.

Listeners can now choose exactly how they want to engage with the videos that amplify music, podcasts, and audiobooks on Spotify. Control changes everything. Time stops feeling wasted and starts feeling owned. We've got more great features in the works, so Spotify remains a place where people love to spend time discovering their new favorite artist, creator, or author. In the meantime, you can listen to or watch our Co-CEO Gustav S derstr m share more about how and why we build intentionally.

LINK:	https://newsroom.spotify.com/2026-04-09/video-control-settings-update/...
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