Spotify is positioning its AI DJ as a more collaborative partner in music discovery, rather than a purely automated curator, with a new voice command feature. The update allows Premium subscribers in over 60 markets to verbally direct the AI DJ, making it a tool to refine and personalize listening sessions on the fly. This move suggests a focus on AI augmenting user control, helping people more easily shape their auditory environment.
Interactive curation: Users can now press and hold the DJ button, wait for a beep, then ask for specific artists, genres, moods, or activity-based playlists like "electronic beats for a midday run." This capability contrasts with the previous functionality where the button only offered a random song switch. The feature, currently in English and still in beta, helps make the AI DJ a more responsive assistant.
Personalization deepened: Spotify states the goal is "taking personalization to a whole new level," enabling users to "actually talk to DJ X." Its English voice is modeled on Spotify’s Xavier ‘X’ Jernigan, and the AI uses OpenAI for dialogue generation to fulfill vocal requests based on listening history. This development then addresses listener feedback for more control.
User-driven discovery: While the AI DJ, first launched in 2023, leverages algorithms and "insights from global editorial experts," these new voice commands put the user more firmly in the driver's seat. Spotify notes, "DJ listener engagement has nearly doubled over the past year—it’s like having a personal musical friend who just gets you." The company encourages users to "get creative...and let DJ take you on a personalized musical journey."