Spotify has unveiled its latest AI innovation: AI playlists. This new feature allows users to create personalized playlists based on written prompts. The AI playlist feature is currently in beta and will initially be available to users in the U.K. and Australia on Android and iOS devices, with plans to expand to more regions in the near future.
Traditionally, users could create playlists based on genre or time frame, but with the use of AI, Spotify will now enable users to create playlists based on a wide range of custom prompts. Whether it’s “songs to serenade my cat” or “beats to battle a zombie apocalypse,” Spotify aims to cater to unique and creative playlist requests. Prompts can reference various themes such as places, animals, activities, movie characters, colors, or emojis. However, Spotify suggests that the best playlists are generated using prompts that combine genres, moods, artists, and decades.
Spotify’s understanding of users’ tastes comes into play when customizing the playlists generated through this feature. By analyzing users’ listening history and preferences, Spotify can personalize the AI-generated playlist to align with their musical preferences.
Once the playlist is generated, users have the flexibility to further refine it using voice commands such as “less upbeat” or “more pop.” In addition, users can swipe left on any songs they wish to remove from the playlist, allowing for greater control over the final selection.
Spotify utilizes large language models (LLMs) to comprehend the user’s intent and personalize playlist creation. These LLMs, coupled with Spotify’s personalization technology, allow the company to deliver a personalized AI-generated playlist that aligns with the user’s musical preferences and prompt.
To achieve this AI-driven playlist creation, Spotify leverages third-party tools and machine learning experiences. This approach ensures that Spotify employs the latest advancements in AI technology to deliver an enhanced user experience.
The development of AI playlists was first reported in October 2023 when code screenshots from Spotify’s app surfaced, referencing AI playlists “based on your prompts.” While Spotify declined to comment on the finding at the time, the company confirmed in December 2023 that it was indeed testing AI-driven playlist creation, following the emergence of a TikTok video showcasing the feature, referred to as “Spotify’s ChatGPT” by the user.
The AI playlist feature can be accessed through the “Your Library” tab on Spotify’s app by tapping on the “+” button. A pop-up menu will display the AI Playlist option alongside existing options like “Playlist” and “Blend.” Spotify even provides users with prompt suggestions if they’re unsure of what to input, making it easier to get started with personalized playlist creation.
Once a user has created an AI playlist, they can save it to their library by tapping the “Create” button. It’s worth noting that Spotify has implemented guardrails to ensure that the AI does not respond to offensive prompts or prompts related to current events or specific brands.
Spotify’s investment in AI technology has been ongoing for quite some time. The global expansion of AI DJ last year demonstrated Spotify’s use of Sonantic and OpenAI technology to create an artificial version of the voice of Xavier “X” Jernigan, Spotify’s head of cultural partnerships. This AI DJ feature introduces personalized song selections to the user, enhancing their music streaming experience.
Furthermore, Spotify has explored various other applications of AI, including podcast summarization, AI-generated audio ads, and even cloning podcast hosts’ voices for host-read ads. These endeavors indicate Spotify’s commitment to leveraging AI to enhance its offerings and explore new avenues in the streaming industry.
Before the introduction of AI playlists, Spotify had already ventured into a similar feature called Niche Mixes. However, Niche Mixes did not utilize AI technology and had more limited language understanding capabilities compared to the AI playlist feature.
In conclusion, Spotify’s AI playlists bring a new level of customization and personalization to the streaming platform. By leveraging AI and large language models, Spotify aims to cater to users’ unique and specific prompt requests, creating playlists that align with their preferences. With the ability to refine playlists and remove songs, users have greater control over their music listening experience. As Spotify continues to invest in AI technology, we can expect more innovative features and enhancements that further enhance the user experience and solidify Spotify’s position as a leading music streaming service.
Source link
