Spotify is introducing Messages, a new in-app feature that allows users to share and discuss music, podcasts, and audiobooks with friends and family. The feature is rolling out to users 16 and older in select markets.

Messages provides a dedicated space within the Spotify app for the word-of-mouth recommendations that are already a key part of the platform’s experience. It allows for one-on-one chats where users can send content, react with emojis, and text back and forth. You can easily start a conversation from the “Now Playing” screen by tapping the share icon and selecting a friend. The feature also suggests people to message based on your past interactions, like sharing content or being in a Blend or collaborative playlist.

From Spotify;

Here’s how Messages work

Messages are one-on-one conversations where you can share Spotify content and react with text and emojis.

• Share Spotify content and start a message in-app with people you’ve interacted with before through Spotify.
• When listening to a song, podcast, or audiobook in the Now Playing View, tap the share icon, select a friend, and hit send.
• Once you accept a message request, you’ll be able to react with emojis, send texts, and seamlessly share Spotify content back and forth. Access Messages by going to your profile photo in the top left corner.

Spotify states that Messages is designed to complement existing sharing options, not replace them, and will help artists and creators gain new fans through increased word-of-mouth recommendations. Users have full control, with options to accept or reject message requests, block users, and report content. Conversations are protected with industry-standard encryption, and Spotify will use proactive detection and moderation to ensure a safe environment for all users.