Spotify just overhauled its premium subscription model in five key markets, introducing a new three-tier system that puts lossless audio streaming behind its most expensive paywall. The move marks the streaming giant's first major restructuring of premium plans since launching its "super premium" concept, with the top-tier Platinum plan priced at $3.37 monthly in India.
Spotify is reshuffling the streaming music deck with a bold new subscription strategy that puts lossless audio squarely in premium territory. The company just rolled out a three-tiered premium structure across five emerging markets - India, Indonesia, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa - marking its most significant subscription overhaul since teasing the "super premium" concept.
The new lineup splits premium access into distinct value propositions. Premium Lite at $1.57 monthly gets you ad-free listening but caps audio quality at 160kbps. Premium Standard bumps that to 320kbps and adds offline downloads for $2.25. But the real prize sits at the top: Premium Platinum at $3.37 monthly unlocks lossless streaming quality alongside AI-powered features that have been exclusive to Western markets.
This isn't just about audio quality though. Spotify is using the Platinum tier to bundle its newest AI experiences, including the AI DJ feature that provides commentary while playing songs and voice command capabilities. The tier also includes access to AI-powered playlist creation tools and integration with DJ software like rekordbox, Serato, and djay for importing music libraries.
The timing feels strategic. These five markets have been waiting for features that North American and European users have enjoyed for months. Now Spotify is using that feature gap as leverage to establish a premium tier structure it can potentially roll out globally. Industry analysts have been expecting this move since multiple reports hinted at a "super premium" plan throughout 2024.
But there's a catch for existing subscribers. In India, Spotify's previous Premium plan cost ₹139 monthly and included features now split across multiple tiers. The new Standard plan costs ₹199 for similar benefits, while family sharing - previously available through a ₹229 Family plan for six users - now requires the ₹299 Platinum tier that only supports three accounts. It's effectively a price increase disguised as premium restructuring.
