Spotify now lets everyone turn off all videos in its app

Spotify has unveiled a significant update that allows users to completely disable video content within its app, enhancing user experience and offering more personalized control. This new feature, announced on Thursday, empowers users to select between an audio-focused interface or one that includes video elements. Starting today, Family Plan administrators worldwide can manage the video settings for all account members directly through their subscription settings. Previously, this capability was restricted to accounts managed for users under the age of 13, where it was found that 60% opted to turn off video features under parental guidance. Now, both Premium and Basic users across various plans—including Individual, Duo, Family, and Student—along with those utilizing the free version of the app, will gain the ability to customize their video content experience. Users can easily access these new controls by navigating to the settings menu and selecting the 'Content and display' option. This allows them to toggle the looping visuals or videos associated with music and podcasts on or off. Once preferences are set, they will apply seamlessly across all devices, including mobile, desktop, web, and TV. The rollout of this feature is expected to reach all users globally throughout this month. According to Spotify's blog, this update gives listeners the freedom to dictate how they engage with video content that complements their audio experience, stating, "Control changes everything. Time stops feeling wasted and starts feeling owned." Despite the new video controls, users will still encounter video advertisements and Canvas-like visuals during certain audio ads. Spotify has been increasingly integrating video into its platform since the introduction of Canvas videos in 2018 and the launch of video podcasts in 2020. The addition of music video support in 2024 aimed to enhance competition with platforms like YouTube. This latest feature is likely a strategic move by Spotify to address concerns from regulators about the impact of video content on younger audiences, catering to users who prefer a more music-centric experience.