Spotify Launches Major Desktop Update

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While I seldom think about Spotify on the desktop anymore, it remains one of the most important platforms for the company. And today it has gotten a major update. The update shows the rapid progression in the service, and also the ongoing shift in focus from being an app platform to providing a more tailored experience.

Spotify Desktop Update

Today’s major update of the Spotify desktop platform brings lyrics provided by Musixmatch to the forefront. Accessible via a new Lyrics button located next to the play bar, lyrics stream karaoke style across the desktop. (Check out the preview video below.) Users can also search and browse popular lyrics from Spotify’s top songs using the Explore feature.

The update also brings several new desktop improvements, including:

•Improved Friend Feed – Its now easier discover what friends and those you are following are listening to. Scroll down the sidebar to see what playlists, songs and artists your friends are enjoying.

•Daily Viral Charts – New charts feature the most shared tracks, as well as regional tracks based play counts. Additionally, all charts now feature indicators to highlight new music and how tracks are performing day by day.

The End Of App Finder

With today’s upgrade, Spotify is now phasing out the App Finder and third-party applications from the desktop client. It’s a move that Spotify signaled months ago and does not mean that its no longer connecting with outside services. Here’s how Spotify describes the shift:

“The integration of Musixmatch brings one of the most popular apps into the main Spotify desktop experience, joining partners like Songkick and Topspin. Additionally, we’ve worked with BBC Playlister, Swarm, Digster, Filtr and others to create richer experiences that complement Spotify and help form new music experiences alongside our own platforms.”

Do you still use Spotify on the desktop? What has your experience been like?

Check out the video preview:

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About the Author

Michael Anderson
I have loved technology for as long as I can remember - and have been a computer gamer since the PDP-10! Mobile Technology has played a major role in my life - I have used an electronic companion since the HP95LX more than 20 years ago, and have been a 'Laptop First' person since my Compaq LTE Lite 3/20 and Powerbook 170 back in 1991! As an avid gamer and gadget-junkie I was constantly asked for my opinions on new technology, which led to writing small blurbs ... and eventually becoming a reviewer many years ago. My family is my biggest priority in life, and they alternate between loving and tolerating my gaming and gadget hobbies ... but ultimately benefits from the addition of technology to our lives!