According to The Verge, Spotify is now launching its own playlist import tool following Apple Music’s similar feature from August. The timing is interesting given recent artist departures from Spotify over Daniel Ek’s war profiteering controversy. Spotify’s solution isn’t built from scratch but directly integrates with TuneMyMusic, which already handles transfers between services like Tidal, YouTube Music, Qobuz, Beatport, and even Napster. The feature is rolling out globally now within the Spotify mobile app, offering unlimited transfers compared to free tier limits on third-party services. This creates a one-way street for users to bring their playlists into Spotify but not export them out.
Streaming wars escalate
Here’s the thing: we’ve had third-party playlist transfer services for years. Companies like TuneMyMusic, Soundiiz, and SongShift have been doing this exact job. But now the big platforms are basically co-opting these services and baking them directly into their apps. Apple started it in August with SongShift powering their import feature, and now Spotify’s doing the same with TuneMyMusic. It’s a smart move—why let users struggle with clunky third-party interfaces when you can offer a seamless experience right in your app?
The real winners
So who actually benefits from this? Well, the transfer service companies get massive exposure and presumably some licensing deals. Users get easier switching between platforms. But let’s be honest—this is really about customer acquisition. Both Apple and Spotify are making it painless to defect from competitors. The timing for Spotify is particularly interesting given their recent PR headaches. When artists are leaving your platform, maybe making it easier for listeners to join becomes extra important?
Limits and fine print
Now, there are some catches. These built-in tools only work one way—you can import into Spotify or Apple Music, but good luck getting your playlists out. And while third-party services often limit free users, going through the official apps gives you unlimited transfers. But is that enough to actually convince people to switch platforms? Playlist portability is nice, but most people stick with a service because of recommendations, audio quality, or just plain habit. Still, lowering the friction for switching can’t hurt when you’re trying to poach users from competitors.
