Spotify launches AI DJ feature In Africa

Spotify this week announced that it will begin rolling out DJ, in Beta, to premium users in more territories, including several African countries.

Initially launched in February in the US and Canada, followed by the UK and Ireland in May, DJ is a personalised AI guide that offers users a carefully curated line-up of music, accompanied by commentary on the tracks and artists, all delivered in a realistic voice.

The feature aims to foster a stronger connection between users and their music, enabling discovery through tailored recommendations.

The initial voice model for DJ was based on Spotify’s head of cultural partnerships, Xavier ‘X’Jernigan. However, the latest rollout extends the offering to include commentary in English for listeners in various international markets.

African countries where the DJ feature is now accessible include Botswana, Burundi, eSwatini, the Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Malawi, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

“Never before has listening felt so completely personal to each and every user, thanks to the powerful combination of Spotify’s personalisation technology, generative AI, and a dynamic, expressive voice,” a statement reads.

Users can access the AI DJ by opening the Spotify mobile app on their iOS or Android devices. After launching the app, they can navigate to the Music Feed on the homepage and tap play on the DJ feature.