Spotify Technology

Spotify will serve as the official music and video partner for the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards, providing fans with select 2026 performances, behind-the-scenes clips and a dedicated VMAs destination on the platform. The hub features archival performances spanning 40 years, curated playlists, nominee highlights and related podcast curation. This marks the first marketing and on-platform content collaboration between Spotify and Paramount ahead of the live show and Paramount+ streaming. » More on forbes.com

Spotify is launching Fresh Finds Forward to give artists added to Fresh Finds playlists after January 1, 2026, 12 months of support including free studio time for US-based artists at Electric Lady Studios, The Lighthouse at Ocean Way Nashville or Spotify Studios LA. Participants receive early access to Spotify tools, priority tour and video partnerships, 12 months of Landr Studio Pro and Splice Creator Plan, and six months of free therapy via BetterHelp. Spotify says the program is free to artists and does not change royalty rates. » More on theverge.com

At the Goldman Sachs Communacopia + Technology Conference, Spotify presented a growth roadmap focused on AI-powered products, paid add-ons and expansion beyond pure music streaming. Management cited audiobooks as an initial success (€100m ARR) and plans to roll out the add-on model to AI features, video, fitness and other verticals. Long-term targets are 1 billion monthly users and 1 billion subscribers, mid-single-digit to double-digit (?) — wait need to correct. Sorry. Let's deliver proper translation. » More on de.investing.com