Spotify App Hints at Upcoming Lossless Audio Tier
▼ Summary
– Spotify has delayed its lossless audio tier for over four years, with no confirmed launch date despite leaks and hints.
– Recent code references in Spotify’s desktop and mobile apps suggest the lossless feature is still in development, including help cards explaining its benefits and requirements.
– The lossless tier would offer high-fidelity music up to 24-bit/44.1 kHz, with compatibility warnings for certain devices or connectivity issues.
– Spotify executives have hinted at premium tiers for “super fans” but have not provided a timeline, citing ongoing investments in higher-quality streaming options.
– New licensing deals with major labels in 2025 and reports of a “Music Pro” tier suggest progress toward launching lossless audio, though Spotify has not confirmed details.
Spotify appears to be quietly preparing for the launch of its long-awaited lossless audio tier, with fresh evidence emerging from the latest app updates. Though initially announced in 2021, the high-fidelity streaming option has faced repeated delays, leaving audiophiles waiting for what was promised as CD-quality, lossless audio at 24-bit/44.1 kHz.
Recent discoveries in the Spotify desktop and mobile app code suggest the feature remains in active development. Reverse engineer Chris Messina uncovered references to “lossless” in the latest build, including help cards explaining the service. One notification states, “Lossless music, now in premium,” while another highlights compatibility with Spotify Connect and wired devices for optimal playback. Warnings about connectivity issues and unavailable tracks in lossless format also appear, indicating a polished user experience is being crafted.
Further confirmation came from a Reddit user who spotted similar references in the mobile app, with text describing “high-fidelity music in up to 24-bit/44.1 kHz.” Though currently disabled, the presence of these strings suggests backend preparations are underway.
Despite these signs, Spotify has remained tight-lipped about an official release date. Executives have vaguely referenced “premium products for super fans” in earnings calls, with Chief Business Officer Alex Norstrom emphasizing the company’s focus on higher-tier offerings to enhance user experience. Licensing hurdles were previously blamed for delays, but recent agreements with major labels like Warner Music and Universal Music Group could finally clear the path.
Rumors of a “Music Pro” subscription tier surfaced earlier this year, potentially bundling lossless streaming with advanced features like remixing tools. While Spotify has not confirmed these plans, the mounting evidence in its app code suggests audiophiles may not have to wait much longer for studio-quality sound.
Image Credits: Screenshot from Chris Messina
Updated with additional findings from Spotify’s mobile app.
(Source: TechCrunch)
