Spotify has unveiled “Prompted Playlists,” a new AI-powered feature designed to give listeners more direct control over how the platform generates personalized music recommendations. The beta release is rolling out first to Premium subscribers in New Zealand, with broader expansion planned after testing.
The tool allows users to request custom playlists through detailed written prompts. Unlike earlier AI playlist features, Prompted Playlists draw on a user’s entire listening history — not just recent behavior — and support longer, highly specific instructions informed by broader world knowledge. Users can refine prompts repeatedly and choose how frequently the playlist should refresh, offering personalized experiences that mirror curated staples such as Discover Weekly or Daily Mixes but tailored to individual themes, genres, moods, or eras.
Spotify says the playlists include contextual notes explaining why each recommendation appears, and the feature provides optional starter prompts to guide users. The launch reflects a broader industry shift toward giving users more influence over algorithmic content, similar to new controls introduced this week on platforms like Instagram and Bluesky.
