Spotify Launches Videos, Podcasts and Running Feature

Spotify expands to video and podcasting. The streaming service is also introducing a unique feature that will be a boon to runners. The updates are launching today in the United States and select countries.

Spotify is now an entertainment platform, expanding its coverage from music streaming to video streaming and podcasting. The company today announced its biggest update since launching in 2008.

In what appears to be a major shift of Spotify’s focus, which is music, Spotify now plays videos and audio shows on top of streaming songs. With over 60 million active users around the world, Spotify has a treasure trove of data, which probably revealed that users wanted more than just music.

“We know there are times in the day you want to switch between music to catch up on the latest news, listen to your favourite podcast or simply watch something fun,” the company said.

Spotify has already partnered with ABC, BBC, Comedy Central, NBCUniversal, ESPN, Condé Nast Entertainment, Fusion, Maker Studios, TBS, TED and Vice News. These media companies will begin streaming video clips and podcasts on Spotify.

In addition to videos and podcasts, Spotify is also announcing a “Now” start page, which plays the right selection of songs every day by learning your listening habits. The more you use Spotify, the more “Now” adapts to your musical tastes.

Daniel Ek, the CEO of Spotify said that today’s announcement brings a deeper, richer, more immersive Spotify experience.

“We want Spotify to help soundtrack your life by offering an even wider world of entertainment with an awesome mix of the best music, podcasts and video delivered to you throughout your day. And we’re just getting started,” he said.

Furthermore, Spotify is announcing a new feature called Spotify Running, an app that aims to be the perfect running companion. Basically, the feature uses your phone’s sensor to detect the tempo of your pace. Then it will suggest songs that will match your running.

Spotify takes it further by adding original songs written by composers and DJs. The main goal of the feature is to improve your running experience. The idea is that if the song matches your pace, you will feel better. The updates will roll out today to iPhone users in the United States, United Kingdom, Germany and Sweden.