Spotify Introduces New Discovery Tools to Improve the Podcast Experience

A significant update to Spotify’s mobile app is being released, with an emphasis on improved capabilities for podcast discovery and engagement for both listeners and artists. With Spotify stepping up its fight with Apple and YouTube to become the preferred podcast streaming platform, the update adds capabilities that increase the visibility of podcasts.

A more customized Home feed experience is now possible thanks to the upgrade, which places personalized audio and video podcast recommendations just beneath a user’s shortcuts.

With Spotify citing early indications of higher user engagement, some recommendations include remarks explaining why they are being suggested.

New Features

Users can now keep track of their favorite shows with the addition of a new Following Feed. This feed, which is found in the Home tab’s Podcasts section, compiles all of the most recent episodes from podcasts you’ve followed into a single, convenient stream. The function is intended to make it easier for consumers who wish to keep current, according to Spotify.

The platform now enables episode pages to have a “In This Episode” section that provides authors with direct access to relevant content, including playlists, audiobooks, music, and other podcasts. This is meant to let creators connect their work across formats and provide consumers with additional context and depth.

Additionally, Spotify is improving its commenting system. Emoji reactions and threads have been introduced to enable more in-depth discussions.

Spotify explained that listeners who react or leave comments watch twice as many episodes as those who don’t. Creators can manage the feature by opting out at the episode or program level with Spotify for Creators.

These global changes, available on iOS and Android, are part of Spotify’s larger strategy to enhance creator tool capabilities and customize podcast discovery.