Spotify Testing New Vertical Scrolling Feature for Podcast Discovery: Report

Spotify is reportedly testing a brand new ‘audio newsfeed’ function for straightforward podcast discovery on its apps. The new interface is alleged to supply a TikTok-style vertical scrolling feed that options 60-second clips from numerous podcasts. It is reportedly utilising a know-how that was developed by the startup firm Podz, which Spotify acquired final yr. This function is presently mentioned to be accessible to a restricted variety of customers. These customers get a devoted ‘Podcasts’ button within the app to entry the vertical feed.

As per a report by TechCrunch, Spotify is alleged to be using the know-how developed by Podz for this function. It reportedly makes use of a machine studying mannequin that has been skilled on 100,000 hours of audio to mechanically choose clips from podcasts. Podz was acquired by Spotify in June 2021.

Product designer Chris Messina shared a check video of this the brand new ‘audio newsfeed’ through his Twitter handle. The video showcases a dedicated ‘Podcasts’ button in the app that takes users to the vertical feed. The feed is populated by clips from podcasts that the users might enjoy with the layout including the cover art of the associated podcast clip. The clip gets transcribed as it is played with the words being highlighted as they are spoken. The user can press the play button if they want to continue listening to the podcast beyond the clip. There is also a ‘+’ button for adding the episode to ‘Your Episodes’ lists. It should be noted that the new feed may undergo several changes before the final build is released.

Spotify has reportedly confirmed the use of Podz’s technology but has not shared its plans for a wider release of the feature or a development roadmap. Spotify could be holding out as it acquires more data to improve the service before launch.