Spotify’s HiFi tier reportedly on the way as an ‘add-on’ for existing plans

What do you want to know

• A report from an inside source claims that Spotify will launch its new HiFi music tier as an “add-on” for an extra $5 per month for existing users “later this year.”
• The plan would bring “new tools” for creating unique playlists that “learn and adapt” to users, as well as song library management options.
• Spotify recently announced plans to increase prices across the board for its users in July.

A new report suggests that Spotify is (actually) planning to launch its new “HiFi” music tier at some point this year.

Citing an anonymous person familiar with the matter, Bloomberg says Spotify is working on launching its HiFi tier to users “later this year” (via 9to5Google). The publication’s source added that Spotify will turn its HiFi music plan into an “add-on” so existing customers can access higher quality tracks.

This add-on would charge users $5 more per month. The source claims that the price “will vary depending on each user’s base plan.” However, this is said to represent an increase “on average” of 40%, regardless of which package users add HiFi to.

This new HiFi plan would bring “new tools” for creating playlists and managing song libraries. Users may be able to create playlists via HiFi for specific dates, times of year and “certain activities”.

Additionally, these unique playlists will supposedly be able to “learn and adapt” from their users.

We’ve been waiting for Spotify’s HiFi music level for a while and a leak from May revealed what we could expect from its launch. For its lossless audio quality, it appears that Spotify will notify users if their device is compatible and how much bandwidth the quality setting absorbs.

The leak also showed that the company could offer Spotify Connect to users as the “best way” to enjoy their music.

Additionally, when it comes to pricing, the picture is a bit clearer after looking at the price hike predicted for July. A week ago, Spotify announced that it would raise prices for the Premium Individual plan by $1, bringing it to $11.99 per month. The Premium Duo plan increases by $2 to $16.99 while the Premium Family plan increases by $3 to $19.99.

If Bloomberg’s source is true and HiFi will be available as a $5 add-on, then users could see their monthly bills at $16.99 if they own the individual plan at first.