Spotify’s AI DJ: A Look on How the Platform is introducing artificial intelligence

How Spotify’s AI DJ could change the way we discover music

Yosi Montes de Oca
Bootcamp

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Images source: Spofity.com

It’s an exciting time in the tech industry as we witness the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence! Companies are embracing this new era of innovation, eager to find ways to incorporate this groundbreaking technology into their existing products. For instance, Spotify is at the forefront of this movement, testing a new and innovative AI feature called: AI DJ.

What is the AI DJ?

The AI DJ is an exciting new feature currently in beta testing that’s set to revolutionize the way we enjoy music. With its advanced technology, the AI DJ offers users a more personalized experience, catering to their unique music tastes and preferences. By analyzing the user’s listening habits, it suggests new music that’s sure to resonate with them while also bringing back old favorites they might have forgotten. It even creates custom mixes based on the user’s frequently played songs.

With the AI DJ, users can say goodbye to boring, repetitive playlists and hello to an exciting musical journey tailored just for them.

The AI DJ has a unique and dynamic voice that interacts with the user, providing helpful tips about the song or artist and even explaining why it recommends certain music. This adds an extra layer of personalization to the experience, making it feel like you have your own personal music expert right at your fingertips.

Everything sounds great, but how does it work?

The AI DJ feature on Spotify is powered by OpenAI technology, the same company that developed the popular ChatGPT. Using advanced machine learning techniques, this feature analyzes users’ music history and playlists to provide personalized suggestions and recommendations. By continually learning and adapting to user preferences, the AI DJ is designed to enhance the user experience and take it to the next level. With this innovative technology, Spotify is changing the game and revolutionizing the way we discover and enjoy music.

First impression based on my personal experience

As a UX Designer in the making, I love to navigate through applications to see if I can find anything new and to learn and practice to incorporate what I find into my designs. The other day, I was listening to music on Spotify and I clicked on the ‘music’ button, in the top left corner, and I saw something new: the AI DJ feature.

I didn’t know what it was and I decided to test it before googling what it was. So I started my interaction with the new feature and let me tell you, it was awesome! First, I like that the same AI DJ explains what it is, is a feature that aims to personalize your experience, and even explains how it works.

1. I received recommendations based on the genres I enjoy listening to

The first recommendation I received from the AI DJ on Spotify was K-pop music, which I’m currently obsessed with. However, I usually only listen to the same K-pop groups, so I was pleasantly surprised when the AI DJ suggested different groups and trending K-pop sounds that I really enjoyed.

It’s great to see that the feature can expand my music taste and introduce me to new artists and songs that I may have otherwise missed.

2. A new icon will allow you to keep interacting with the AI DJ

Another thing I noticed is that if you are using the AI DJ, a small new icon on the button right will appear, you can click or tap on it every time you want to switch the vibe.

3. You will learn more about music and your favorites artists

Is also amazing that the AI DJ makes comments about the recommendation he makes, for example, if he suggests a new artist for you, the AI DJ will tell you more about its story and type of music, for example. Is interesting because you can feel more empathy for the artist behind the song, and at the same time, you will discover new content that you mind find interesting.

Where is the AI DJ of Spotify available?

Currently, the beta version of the AI DJ is only available for premium users in the US and Canada. I think it may not be available for Android users yet, as some have reported not seeing the option. However, if you’re an iPhone user, you’re in luck as the feature should be accessible on your Spotify account. To access the AI DJ from your iPhone, you will have to:

  • Sign in to your Spotify account
  • Click on the ‘music’ button, in the top left corner.
  • Scroll down until see the AI DJ feature.
  • And now, you can start interacting with it!

Is so exciting to see the ways different companies are introducing AI into their platform to enhance the user experience and take it to the next level.

Keep an eye out for updates as the feature expands to more regions and platforms in the near future.

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Let's learn UX together 🫶🏻 | UX Designer living in the USA 📍