X is launching a marketplace for premium users to browse and request inactive handles, with free priority handles and paid rare handles that can cost from $2,500 to over seven figures, aiming to attract more paid subscribers and offering options like handle redirects in the future.
Spotify has finally launched its long-awaited lossless audio feature for premium subscribers in 50 markets worldwide, offering CD-quality streaming at no extra cost, after years of anticipation and delays.
Spotify is testing a new beta feature for Premium users that allows for customizable track transitions in playlists, enabling automatic blending or manual adjustments of volume, EQ, and effects to enhance listening and DJ experiences, with collaborative playlist options also available.
YouTube Music is testing an AI feature that allows Premium users in the US to create custom playlists by describing what they want to hear. Additionally, a new Shazam-like feature will let users search for songs by singing, humming, or playing them, available on both iPhone and Android devices.
X is removing the ability for Premium users to hide their blue checkmarks, a feature that was made optional last summer. The blue check lost its status as a symbol of verification after X shifted to a paid verification system under Elon Musk's ownership, and it became associated with paid Premium subscriptions. The feature was also abused by scammers and impersonators, leading to online harassment and mass blocking. Despite some users opting to hide their blue checks, they will no longer have the choice as X plans to remove this feature.
Spotify has launched a beta feature called AI playlists for Premium users in Australia and the UK, allowing them to create playlists using prompts such as moods, artists, genres, and more. The feature aims to enhance user experience by generating personalized playlists based on specific prompts, although offensive prompts are monitored. The company has not yet announced a wider release for this feature.
YouTube is testing a new lock screen feature for select Premium subscribers on Android and iOS devices. The feature allows users to lock their screens while watching videos in full-screen mode, preventing accidental taps and disruptions. This experiment is similar to Netflix's screen lock feature introduced in 2020. YouTube is also running tests to limit usage on ad blockers and considering an online game offering.