Spotify plans to introduce its long-awaited high-fidelity audio streaming service later this year, according to Bloomberg, as part of a new “Music Pro” tier that will cost subscribers an additional $6 per month on top of their existing Premium plan.
Why it matters: The launch fundamentally changes Spotify‘s premium offering strategy by bundling HiFi audio with exclusive features, though it arrives years after competitors Apple Music and Amazon Music began offering lossless audio at no extra charge.
Technical Features: The Music Pro tier introduces several key innovations beyond just improved audio quality:
- Lossless CD-quality audio streaming (It’s why you have the best speakers)
- AI-powered music remixing tools
- Early access to concert tickets
Market Impact: Spotify’s approach to premium audio reflects broader strategic goals:
- $18 total monthly cost with Premium subscription
- Phased feature rollout throughout 2025
- Varying prices for different markets
The company has secured crucial licensing agreements with major labels including Warner Music Group and Universal Music Group to enable high-quality streaming. However, unlike competitors who include HiFi audio in their standard subscriptions, Spotify is positioning Music Pro as a premium add-on for dedicated music fans.
The service will roll out features gradually throughout 2025, starting with lossless audio and expanding to include AI-powered remixing tools that let users combine tracks from different artists. Spotify is also in preliminary talks with major promoters and ticket sellers to offer subscribers exclusive concert access.
This launch comes four years after Spotify’s initial HiFi announcement in 2021. While the delay has allowed competitors to establish themselves in the high-quality audio space, Spotify believes bundling exclusive features will justify the additional cost for serious music fans.
Looking ahead, the success of Music Pro could determine whether Spotify can maintain its market leadership while charging premium prices in an increasingly competitive streaming landscape.