Snapchat Launches Now Playing Feature to Share Music in Real Time
Snapchat has introduced a new feature called “Now Playing” that allows users to share the music they are listening to in real time through Snap Map. Moreover, the feature connects with streaming services, starting with Spotify, allowing users to display their current songs and discover what their friends are playing.
Additionally, users can view the music activity of their friends through Snap Map. The feature has also been integrated with Spotlight videos, Snapchat’s short-form video platform similar to TikTok.
Furthermore, users can save songs discovered through Spotlight directly to Spotify or visit the track page on the streaming platform. Therefore, the update creates a smoother connection between music discovery and social sharing.
Privacy Controls and Growing Music Sharing Trends
Users can decide who can view their listening activity through customizable privacy settings. Moreover, the feature does not display previous songs or listening history, while sharing remains active only when users have opened Snapchat within the last 24 hours.
If users remain inactive for more than 24 hours, sharing will automatically stop. However, the feature will restart once they open the app again. Additionally, users can manually pause their activity sharing for three hours, 24 hours, or permanently.
Meanwhile, social media platforms are increasingly focusing on music discovery and sharing. TikTok allows users to share songs from streaming services and save tracks they discover through viral content. Similarly, Instagram enables users to share their current music through Notes, which appear at the top of direct message inboxes.
Moreover, Spotify has also expanded social music features by allowing users to share their listening activity with friends in real time.
Snap Map Expands With Music Discovery
The new integration adds another capability to Snap Map, which has more than 450 million monthly users. Initially launched in 2017, Snap Map allowed users to view friends’ locations and explore public Snaps from different parts of the world.
Over time, however, the feature has expanded beyond location sharing. Additionally, it now includes local hotspots, activities, and music discovery tools.
Furthermore, Snapchat is rolling out the new feature in regions where both Spotify and Snapchat are available. Canada will also receive access to the feature soon. The update highlights the growing connection between social platforms, music streaming, and personalized digital experiences.
