In the near future, the popular streaming service Spotify will integrate with HealthKit, a software platform developed by Apple for iOS devices.
This integration will allow Spotify to collect data about a user’s workouts, including information such as duration, heart rate, and the number of calories burned. According to a developer who discovered functions in the Spotify code related to Apple’s API, this data will be used by Apple to create an automated workout playlist system based on the user’s activity level and preferences.
For example, if a person is active and frequently goes running, Spotify may include more energetic music in their playlist, while someone who prefers meditation and stretching may receive a playlist with more soothing music. It’s worth noting that Spotify will not be able to collect user data without their permission, as any application that utilizes the Apple API must be approved by the user, and the user can also opt to stop the integration at any time.
Over the past couple of years we have already seen Spotify developing experimental playlist creation features. The most recent one is designed to mirror a users’ current mood by getting various data from them like a favorite color or a shape of choice. Another attempt is the AI-driven “Expand playlist” feature that helps with finding similar songs to the ones in a playlist. Both of them have proven themselves as very solid and practical from those looking to broaden their musical perspective.
It is currently unclear when this integration will be released, or what specific medical data Spotify plans to collect. The Spotify press office has not yet commented on the matter. Most probably, this is a Spotify’s response to new features like the karaoke mode being added to Apple Music, their biggest competitor.