Spotify has begun testing a new AI feature called Prompted Playlists, giving Premium users more control over how their playlists are created. Currently available in beta for Premium subscribers in New Zealand, this tool allows users to generate playlists using detailed written prompts that reflect their entire listening history.
In this guide, we'll break down what Prompted Playlists are, why they matter, and how you can use them once the feature becomes available in your region.
What Are Spotify's New AI "Prompted Playlists"?
Spotify's Prompted Playlists are an upgraded version of the company's previous AI playlist tools. Instead of short commands, users can now input long, descriptive prompts with clear instructions.
Key characteristics:
Accepts long, detailed text prompts
Uses your full Spotify listening history
Incorporates world knowledge, trends, genres, and cultural context
Provides explanations for each song choice
Allows playlist refresh scheduling (daily, weekly, or manual)
This makes the feature more flexible and more personalized than existing Discover Weekly or Daily Mix playlists.
How Prompted Playlists Differ From Previous AI Playlists
1. Longer, More Specific Prompts
The AI now understands complex instructions.
Example prompts:
"High-energy pop and hip-hop for a 30-minute 5K run, ending with calm songs for cooldown."
"Tracks from my top artists from the last five years, but only deep cuts I haven't played yet."
2. Better Use of Listening History
Instead of focusing on recent habits, the system analyzes your entire Spotify history from day one.
3. Adjustable Refresh Frequency
Users can set playlists to refresh:
Daily
Weekly
Or only when manually updated
4. Explanation and Context
Spotify includes descriptions of why each song appears, helping users understand the algorithmic logic.
5. Starter Prompts for Beginners
Spotify offers built-in examples for users who don't know how to start.
How to Create a Prompted Playlist (Step-by-Step Guide)
Once the feature launches globally, users can follow these steps:
Step 1: Open Spotify
Navigate to the "Create Playlist" section and select Prompted Playlist.
Step 2: Enter Your Prompt
Write a detailed description of what you want.
Examples:
"Upbeat indie tracks for late-night studying."
"Electronic music with nostalgic 2010–2015 vibes."
"Trending movie and TV soundtrack songs that match my taste."
Step 3: Refine the Playlist
You can continue adjusting the prompt, e.g.:
"More female vocalists."
"Less mainstream songs."
"Exclude songs I've played recently."
Step 4: Set the Refresh Schedule
Choose how often the playlist updates:
Daily
Weekly
Never (manual mode)
Step 5: Save and Listen
Spotify will automatically update and evolve the playlist according to your rules.
Why User-Controlled Algorithms Matter
More platforms are giving users control over recommendation systems:
Instagram recently added new content controls for Reels
Bluesky allows users to swap entire recommendation algorithms
Spotify's Prompted Playlists align with this trend, offering a more transparent and customizable music discovery experience.
How to Create Better Prompts
1. Combine Multiple Elements
Add mood + genre + activity
"Energetic EDM for gym workouts with motivating breakdowns."
2. Include Time Frames
"Rock songs from 2015–2020 with a cinematic feel."
3. Reference Your Personal History
"Songs similar to my 2021 top artists but more upbeat."
4. Ask for Variety or Depth
"Underrated R&B tracks from female artists."
5. Request Activity-Based Flow
"Music that starts fast, then slows down for reading."
These patterns help Spotify generate more accurate playlists.
Final Thoughts
Spotify's new Prompted Playlists feature marks a major leap in personalized music curation. By combining extensive listening history, detailed text prompts, and adjustable refresh schedules, Spotify allows users to create playlists that are more flexible, accurate, and dynamic than ever before.
As the feature expands beyond New Zealand, it's expected to become one of Spotify's most powerful AI tools for music discovery.
