Spotify readying browser - based version, says report

Spotify is preparing to launch a browser-based version of its popular music service, according to a report.

It ' s unknown whether the new product will replace the current desktop version, which requires downloading a player, TechCrunch reports, citing unnamed sources. Spotify is currently available by way of the downloadable desktop software or by mobile app.

A browser - based version of Spotify would be available to users on any PC, rather than just the one with the downloaded player.

According to TechCrunch ' s sources, Spotify is also working to improve the ways users can discover new music. Spotify listeners can already subscribe to nonfriends ' playlists, but TechCrunch says the service will probably start suggesting various lists to follow and " may try to recruit big name celebrities, musicians, and DJs to share playlists. "

Spotify may also tweak its pricing to encourage mobile use, TechCrunch reports, with, perhaps, an $۸ a month plan for ad - free and mobile service. The service is currently free on the desktop with advertisements; ad - free on the desktop for $۵ a month; and ad - free on the desktop and on mobile apps - - with offline listening possible - - for $۱۰ a month.

Spotify has recently been positioning to take on Pandora, the Web - based streaming service that lets users set up " radio stations " by choosing songs or artists they like and having the service play similar tunes. Spotify, which began as an exclusively on - demand service, where users search for particular songs and albums and play them, launched its own Pandora - like " radio " version for its desktop player in May. It then brought the " radio " model to its iOS app in June and its Android app in July.

Earlier this week, The Wall Street Journal reported that Apple is preparing its own " radio " - like service.

We'll contact Spotify for comment and update this post if we hear back.