Spotify brings AI playlists with natural language to the US and Canada
Spotify has rolled out its new “Prompted Playlists” feature for Premium subscribers in the USA and Canada, reports TechCrunch. The AI-powered tool, which was initially tested in New Zealand, enables users to create playlists through natural-language descriptions. The feature builds on an earlier AI playlist feature from 2024, but works with significantly more complex inputs.
While the first generation processed simple prompts describing, for example, a music genre or mood, the new version understands longer, conversational requests according to Spotify. In a demo, the company showed a playlist based on more complex prompts. For instance, users can direct the app to play them an artist they’d likely enjoy, or one they’ve only heard a few songs from. The AI analyzes trends, charts, culture, and music history in real time, as well as users’ entire listening history since joining the service.
Playlist Curation Without Jargon
J.J. Italiano, Head of Global Music Curation and Discovery at Spotify, explains the motivation behind the feature: “For most people, this isn’t part of their job. You don’t always have the time or energy to create the perfect playlist every time your mood changes, and that’s exactly where Prompted Playlists come in.” His team oversees popular Spotify playlists like Today’s Top Hits, New Music Friday, and Rap Caviar. “It gives listeners access to this creative process without needing to know genres, years, or industry jargon. You don’t need the right words. You just need your own words,” Italiano says. “If you can describe a feeling, you can create a playlist.”
The prompts don’t need to contain musical terminology. Users can request playlists based on weather or their favorite TV show, for example. By default, the system personalizes results. However, users can also explicitly instruct the AI to ignore their listening history or suggest only new tracks.
Spotify Sees “Next Evolution” of Playlist Feature
Spotify calls Prompted Playlists the “Next Evolution” of its earlier AI playlist feature. The new version is designed to understand a user’s entire listening history, not just current preferences. However, the older AI playlist tool won’t be shut down—both products will exist in parallel, which could lead to user confusion. The feature is still in beta with usage limits that may change, and currently supports English input only.
Spotify left open when Prompted Playlists will be available globally. The company wants to learn from the USA and Canada markets first before rolling out further launches.
