Spotify has recently introduced a new Basic plan, priced at $11 per month, which removes audiobooks from its offerings. This development comes on the heels of the company’s recent price hike, which saw its Premium plan increase from $11 to $12 per month.
What’s Behind the New Basic Plan?
The new Basic plan, currently available only to U.S. subscribers, strips away the 15 hours of monthly audiobook listening time, providing users with access to music and podcasts only. This move is likely to appeal to users who are not interested in audiobooks and are looking for a more affordable option.
A Response to User Feedback?
The introduction of the Basic plan can be seen as a response to user feedback, following the price hike earlier this year. The company had increased the prices of its Premium, Duo, and Family plans to offset the cost of adding audiobooks to its platform. However, this move may not have been well-received by users who do not consume audiobooks.
Audiobooks Access Plan: A Separate Option for Avid Readers
In March, Spotify had announced a separate $10-per-month Audiobooks Access plan, which provides users with 15 hours of audiobook listening time per month. This plan also includes access to Spotify’s ad-supported music service. This move indicates that the company is willing to offer tailored plans to cater to different user preferences.
What’s Next for Spotify?
The introduction of the Basic plan and the Audiobooks Access plan raises questions about Spotify’s future plans. The company has been toying with the idea of introducing a “HiFi” plan, which would offer high-resolution audio to users. Reports suggest that a new $5-per-month hi-res audio “add-on” may be launched by the end of the year.
The Rise of Music Streaming Services
The music streaming landscape has witnessed significant growth in recent years, with services like Apple Music, Tidal, and Amazon Music competing for market share. Spotify’s move to introduce a more affordable option without audiobooks may be a strategic move to stay ahead of the competition.
The Future of Audiobooks on Spotify
The introduction of the Basic plan without audiobooks raises questions about the future of audiobooks on Spotify. Will the company continue to offer audiobooks as a separate service, or will it integrate them into its Premium plan? Only time will tell.
Conclusion
Spotify’s new Basic plan is a welcome move for users who are looking for a more affordable option without audiobooks. The company’s willingness to experiment with different plans and pricing models is a testament to its commitment to providing users with a personalized experience. As the music streaming landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Spotify adapts to changing user preferences and market trends.