Weeks after I canceled my Spotify subscription and switched to Tidal, Spotify made some big changes. First, on September 10, they launched lossless streaming without any extra charge. Then, on September 16, they let free users choose their own tracks, albeit within limits.
Lossless streaming had been a top request from Premium users who pay more than free users. Interestingly, while competitors like Apple Music and Amazon Music offered Hi-Fi streaming easily, Spotify seemed slow to catch up.
What puzzled me was how quietly Spotify introduced this feature. Even though I regularly use the app for podcasts, I didn’t receive any notice about lossless streaming. It makes me wonder: does Spotify really think this feature isn’t that important?
The Low-Key Launch of Lossless Audio
Many users, including myself, were surprised to discover lossless audio was available. It’s clear that Spotify’s main focus has been on creating a platform for music discovery rather than prioritizing high audio quality. I fell in love with Spotify in 2015 for its incredible range of music and helpful features like curated playlists.
Back then, Spotify didn’t face much competition. Now, YouTube Music, bundled with YouTube Premium, and Amazon Music tied to Prime have changed the game. Spotify has added features like AI playlist generators, audiobooks, and podcasts, but these changes felt cluttered and less focused on music.
Despite my switch to Tidal, I still find it curious that Spotify didn’t shout about this new feature. Their marketing was understated—a press release and a few social media announcements, but nothing too impactful.
Why Aren’t People Talking About Lossless Audio?
Lossless audio doesn’t seem to excite most users. A recent study showed about 70% of headphone users now prefer Bluetooth devices. For them, the difference in sound quality might not even matter since Bluetooth compresses audio. If you’re playing music through wired headphones, you can hear the difference when switching between lossless and standard tracks. The 24-bit/44.1 kHz quality from Spotify is much better than their usual 320 kbit/s.
While I initially praised Tidal for superior audio quality, I also enjoy high-quality speakers at home. Most people listening through Bluetooth won’t notice the benefits of lossless audio.
Spotify’s Strategy—Or Lack Thereof
Spotify probably knows it’s not going to win the battle for audiophiles, and that’s okay. If they had introduced lossless streaming in 2015, it might have shaken up the industry. Back then, Tidal was charging $20 a month, while Spotify was only $9.99 for Premium. Including lossless streaming back then would have set them apart.
But in 2025, it’s too little, too late. Competitors like Apple Music and Amazon Music have offered high-quality streaming for years, often at better quality than Spotify’s current offering. Tidal, for example, goes up to 24-bit/192 kHz, which is significantly better.
What Comes Next?
In the end, Spotify may not have needed lossless audio to keep subscribers, and this update likely won’t change user numbers. Audiophiles will continue to prefer higher-quality options, while casual listeners care more about features that improve their experience.
So here we are: lossless audio is available, but the buzz is minimal. If you were hoping for a major turn in the music streaming landscape, you might be disappointed. For now, lossless audio feels less like a game-changer and more like an afterthought.
For further insights, you can check out Kantar Media’s report on the rise of Bluetooth headphones.
