Unlike traditional algorithm-driven playlists that rely heavily on past listening behaviour, Prompted Playlist gives users direct control over how music is curated. Subscribers can instruct Spotify using phrases such as “create a playlist for a long winter drive with 2000s downtempo tracks” or “fresh indie music with no mainstream hits.”
Spotify says the feature enables users to shape discovery in a more intentional way, blending personal taste with algorithmic intelligence to surface deeper cuts, emerging artists, or culturally relevant tracks.
What Makes Prompted Playlist Different
Previous AI-driven features on Spotify largely generated static playlists that users could only edit manually. The new system introduces dynamic customisation, allowing listeners to refine recommendations in real time through feedback and exclusion rules.
Users can also schedule playlists to refresh daily or weekly, ensuring that content evolves with changing moods, listening habits, and new music releases.
A Premium-Only Feature
Prompted Playlist is currently available only to Spotify Premium subscribers in the US and Canada. In the United States, the Premium plan is priced at $12.99 per month.
Industry analysts see the feature as a strategic move to convert free users into paying customers by positioning AI-powered personalisation as a high-value perk.
Spotify’s View on User Control
Speaking during a media briefing, Spotify Vice President of Product Personalization Molly Holder said listeners increasingly want to shape their own experiences rather than rely entirely on automated recommendations.
According to Spotify, the AI model considers both user instructions and listening history, ensuring playlists remain personalised while respecting explicit preferences.
Rising Competition With YouTube
YouTube remains one of the world’s largest platforms for music discovery, especially among younger audiences. By introducing conversational AI tools, Spotify is aiming to close that gap and keep users within its ecosystem for longer periods.
The move reflects a broader trend in the tech industry where AI is being used to personalise content and improve retention across digital platforms.
Implications for Indian Users
While the feature has not yet been announced for India, Spotify’s rapid expansion of AI tools suggests a wider rollout could follow. India remains one of Spotify’s fastest-growing markets, driven by smartphone adoption and digital streaming.
What Comes Next
Spotify has not disclosed when Prompted Playlist will expand to other regions, but the company has indicated that user feedback from North America will guide future updates.
As AI becomes more deeply embedded in music platforms, the battle for listener attention is likely to intensify, reshaping how audiences engage with digital entertainment.