Spotify considering launching Music Pro subscription
Spotify is set to introduce a new subscription tier called ‘Music Pro,’ which will cater to audiophiles by providing high-quality lossless audio. This move is seen as a response to increasing competition in the streaming market, with Apple Music already offering comparable features.
Rumors about Spotify’s project for lossless audio have been circulating for years, before Apple Music adopted the technology in 2021. Despite this, the name Spotify HiFi has remained elusive. According to The Verge, however, indications suggest that Spotify is now laying the groundwork for the rollout of its new Music Pro plan, 9to5Mac reports.
The embedded code of the Spotify app offers a sneak peek at the upcoming features of the premium level. A standout addition is support for lossless audio, and Spotify aims to deliver FLAC audio files at up to 24-bit/44.1kHz quality. By comparison, Apple Music’s lossless range extends from 16-bit/44.1kHz (CD quality) to 24-bit/192kHz.
Improved listening experience
For the uninitiated, lossless audio requires compression without sacrificing audio data, resulting in playback of the original master file. This promises discernible detail for high-end listeners, especially when paired with premium wired headphones or other specialized equipment.
Beyond Lossless: What to Expect
In addition to lossless audio, Spotify is looking to sweeten the deal for “Music Pro” subscribers. In addition to the remix feature that allows you to manipulate the track, there are tips for optimizing the headphones, which are tailored to specific models, such as Apple’s AirPods. Advanced AI-based filters for playlist curation also seem to be on the cards.
Details regarding the release timeline and pricing for the Music Pro tier are still shrouded in uncertainty. Nevertheless, while Spotify is considering pricing for lossless audio, Apple Music has specifically made hi-fi audio available to all subscribers at no extra charge. Currently priced at $10.99 per month in the US, Apple Music is a compelling alternative.
As the battle for audio superiority heats up between the streaming giants, a looming question arises: would consumers be willing to pay more for lossless audio on Spotify, or would they consider switching to Apple Music?
