Spotify Lossless Audio Launches for Premium Subscribers at No Extra Cost

Spotify has officially launched its long-awaited lossless audio streaming feature. The new high-fidelity tier is now rolling out to Premium subscribers. This major update will be available in over 50 markets worldwide.

Importantly, the company is not charging extra for this enhanced sound quality. This move directly counters services like Apple Music and Amazon Music, which already offer lossless audio.

What Spotify HiFi Offers Listeners

The new feature streams music in the FLAC format. This provides CD-quality, lossless audio up to 24-bit/44.1kHz. According to Reuters, this ensures every detail of the original recording is preserved.

Users will need high-quality headphones or speakers to hear the full difference. The setting can be adjusted in the app’s audio quality menu. Downloads will also be available in lossless quality for offline listening.

Rollout Plan and Device Compatibility

The global rollout is expected to take up to two months. Initial markets include the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia. Dozens of European and Asian countries will follow shortly after.

Spotify confirms support for devices from major brands. Partners include Sonos, Bose, Samsung, and Sennheiser. This ensures a wide range of home and portable audio equipment will be compatible.

This launch finally ends an eight-year wait for Spotify’s high-fidelity audio. The decision to include it in the standard Premium plan is a significant win for subscribers. It raises the bar for music streaming value across the entire industry.

Info at your fingertips

Is Spotify lossless audio more expensive?

No. Spotify is not increasing the price of its Premium subscription. The lossless audio feature is included at no extra cost to all paying users.

What do I need to hear Spotify lossless audio?

You need a Spotify Premium subscription and a compatible audio device. This includes high-quality wired headphones or supported wireless speakers and sound systems.

How does Spotify HiFi compare to Apple Music?

Both now offer lossless streaming at no extra cost. Apple Music supports a higher 24-bit/192kHz resolution, while Spotify’s initial offering is 24-bit/44.1kHz, which is still CD-quality.

Will lossless audio use more data?

Yes. Streaming and downloading lossless music files consumes significantly more data than standard quality streaming. Users should be mindful of their data plans.

Trusted Sources

Reuters, Associated Press