STOCKHOLM, April 9, 2026, 19:07 CEST
Spotify on Thursday announced new controls allowing users to turn off all video content within its app, a move aimed at those who prefer audio-only streaming for both music and podcasts. The platform is also updating its family plan settings, letting plan managers block video for any member, not just kids.
The timing stands out. Back in December, Reuters reported that Spotify expanded music videos to its premium users in the U.S. and Canada—moving to compete more directly with YouTube and strengthen its hand versus Apple Music and Amazon Music. Then in January, the company dropped requirements for creators looking to monetize video podcasts.
Spotify’s chief public affairs officer Dustee Jenkins said in a company post Thursday that families looking for a “music-focused, distraction-free” environment might find the new tools helpful, giving them a way to steer the service back to its “audio-first roots.” According to Spotify, parents or guardians have already disabled video for 60% of managed accounts owned by users under 13. Spotify
Spotify says users can access the new controls by heading to Settings > Content and display. The toggles affect Canvas — those looping video snippets — plus music videos and anything else in video format, like video podcasts and vertical clips. Notably, 9to5Mac pointed out that switching off music videos also reverts live performances to audio-only.
Spotify says the new settings will be available on mobile, desktop, web, and TV. Controls are coming this month to all Premium and Basic users—including Individual, Duo, Family, Student plans—and to free listeners as well. The Verge noted that if video is turned off for a plan, users can’t re-enable it within the app.
Spotify keeps touting its video numbers. Back in January, Roman Wasenmuller, the company’s global head of podcast, claimed that monthly video podcast consumption had “nearly doubled” since the partner program debuted. And just last month, Brian Berner, global head of advertising, said fans are using Spotify to “listen, watch, and engage.” Reuters
Even so, the update isn’t a cure-all. Spotify noted that video ads aren’t going anywhere, and some audio spots will stick with those Canvas-style animated visuals. The rollout is staggered, so plenty of listeners won’t get the new controls immediately.
Spotify’s latest update puts a new toggle in users’ hands, letting them pick either a video-powered experience or stick with audio alone. The streaming giant is rolling this option out while continuing to pour resources into both music videos and video podcasts.
