Spotify's Basic Plan Exists — But New Users Can't Actually Subscribe to It
Spotify's 'Basic' plan availability has become a point of controversy, with questions arising about its accessibility to subscribers. Here's what you need to know about Spotify's unbundled Basic tier:
Key Facts:
- Basic plans are only available to existing subscribers
- New subscribers cannot access the unbundled Basic plan
- Family and Duo bundled Premium plans can be downgraded to Basic
- Spotify has shifted over 98% of its plans into bundles
Troll statue beside red brick wall
Spotify's Position:
- Claims Basic plan isn't being buried
- Sent email notifications about the expanded option
- Maintains transparency about plan options
- Disputes claims of intentionally hiding the Basic tier
Red arrow points at Spotify graph
Industry Response:
- Music publishers criticize Spotify's shift to bundling
- The Mechanical Licensing Collective has filed a lawsuit
- NMPA (National Music Publishers' Association) is pushing for legislative changes
- Publishers raise concerns about potential royalty reduction
Financial Impact:
- Bundled plans generate more revenue for Spotify
- Bundled offerings reduce royalty payment costs
- Company reports significant savings from bundling strategy
- Pricing structure favors bundled over Basic subscriptions
Access to Basic Plan:
- Requires existing subscription
- Can be found through account settings
- Available through subscription options page
- Discoverable mainly through direct navigation or referral
NMPA music bundling image
Man wearing green shirt at screen
The introduction of the Basic plan appears to serve both as a response to industry criticism and as a strategic business move, balancing user choice with profitability while navigating ongoing legal and regulatory scrutiny.
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