Hopefully, the long awaited Spotify’s Music Pro Add-on will launch in 2025. Spotify HiFi, a high-fidelity audio streaming tier, was announced in 2021—promising lossless audio streaming (of 16-bit/44.1kHz), CD-quality sound for its subscribers that year. However, as at the time of writing, it has yet to be released.
The latest reports indicate it’s finally coming in a matter of months as part of a Music Pro package that Spotify hopes will ensure the service’s continued profitability. The Spotify CEO Daniel Ek attributes the 3+ year delay to licensing negotiations and the music pro package could cost additional $5 per month.
The Spotify HiFi is expected to offer improved audio quality over Spotify's current 320 kbps Ogg Vorbis format, targeting audiophiles and music enthusiasts and positioning it to compete with services like Tidal, Apple Music Lossless, and Amazon Music HD that are already offering lossless tier to music lovers.
Notably, technical analysis of Spotify’s app code uncovered references to "lossless" and "HiFi" tiers in 2023, indicating ongoing development of a high-quality audio streaming feature. Leaked screenshots further suggested a potential "Platinum" subscription tier, which could bundle HiFi audio with additional perks such as advanced music-organising tools and personalised listening insights.
Industry speculation also points to potential collaborations with hardware manufacturers like Sonos to ensure seamless compatibility with high-end sound systems. However, despite these clues, Spotify has yet to formally confirm the existence or timeline of such features, leaving details unverified as of mid-2024.
How does Spotify HiFi works?
Spotify HiFi is expected to provide lossless audio quality. Meaning, it will allow users to stream music in a format that preserves more details compared to Spotify’s current highest quality setting (320 kbps Ogg Vorbis).
Lossless audio delivers sound at CD-quality (16-bit, 44.1 kHz FLAC) or possibly higher, making it a significant upgrade for audiophiles. So, instead of compressing audio files with lossy formats (like MP3 or AAC), HiFi streams music in FLAC or another lossless format, maintaining the original sound quality.
However, it’s important to note that lossless audio (like Spotify HiFi) uses more internet data than regular streaming, so you’ll need a strong, fast connection to avoid pauses. To enjoy the full quality, you’ll also need good headphones, speakers, or a DAC (a device that improves sound).
Spotify will likely let you stream HiFi to speakers/systems that work with Spotify Connect, a feature already built into many devices. In short: better sound needs better gear and internet, but it should fit into how you already use Spotify.
Spotify HiFi price and release date
The Spotify HiFi, likely priced as a premium add-on (+$5–$10/month) or a new "Platinum" plan at $19.99/month, would sit above its current $10.99/month U.S. Premium subscription. To justify the higher cost, the tier may bundle features like audiobooks (tested in Australia) or upgraded podcast tools.
However, while some users may prioritise high-quality audio alternatives, the platform’s social features and popularity among listeners could drive interest in the upgraded tier. A competitively priced bundle of features might also appeal to those seeking enhanced functionality, though comparisons to simpler, existing services may influence adoption.
Speaking about its release date, some latest reports indicate it’s finally coming in a matter of months in 2025 as part of a Music Pro package that Spotify hopes will ensure the service’s continued profitability.
