YouTube could change free access while Spotify rolls out a richer music feature

(Web Desk) - Music streaming apps rarely sit still, and this week has been a telling one for how differently the major platforms are choosing to evolve.

Spotify is adding another layer to its listening experience, while YouTube Music appears to be quietly restricting access to a feature many users had come to expect for free.

For listeners weighing which service offers the best value, or whether it’s worth paying for more than one, these small shifts matter. Over time, they shape how much control users have, and what they’re expected to pay for.

Spotify’s latest update builds on a run of recent additions, from audiobook syncing to expanded lyrics tools. The newest feature, called About the Song, adds background information and artist insights to tracks in a story-style format.

Listeners can swipe through notes on inspiration, meaning or artist commentary while a song plays, and offer feedback on whether the information was useful.

Spotify says the feature is designed to deepen listeners’ connection to the music by offering more context around how songs are made. It’s currently labelled as a beta and is rolling out to Premium subscribers on iOS and Android in select markets including the US, UK, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand and Australia.

Crucially, it’s an addition rather than a replacement. Free users aren’t losing anything, but Premium subscribers are being given another reason to stay.