Spotify has introduced a new in-app messaging feature called “Messages” in a strategic move to transform its platform into a more comprehensive social network. The new functionality, which is being rolled out to both free and premium users, allows friends and family to share music, podcasts, and audiobooks with each other directly within the app’s ecosystem. The company says the feature was developed in response to user feedback, as a significant number of its users already share content through other platforms. The new Messages feature allows for one-on-one conversations and is supported by a robust set of privacy and safety tools, including the ability to block users and report content. While Spotify claims this new feature is intended to complement existing sharing methods on platforms like WhatsApp and Instagram, it is a clear effort to increase user engagement and keep conversations about content on its own platform.