Imagine listening to your favorite track at 1.5x speed to cram in more songs during a morning commute, or slowing down a complex instrumental to catch every nuance. This flexibility has long been a staple for podcast lovers on Spotify, but music fans have been left out. Thanks to a recent code discovery within the app, that may be changing soon. Here’s everything you need to know about this potential game-changing feature.

1. The Leak: Code Hints at Music Speed Control

Earlier today, Android Authority reported that a string of code found in the latest version of the Spotify app suggests the company is working on playback speed control for music. The code, which appears alongside existing podcast speed controls, includes references like "setPlaybackSpeed" and "speedControlEnabled" for audio tracks—not just spoken word content. While Spotify hasn’t officially confirmed anything, these internal flags are a strong indicator that the feature is in active development.

2. Already a Hit for Podcasts

Spotify introduced variable speed playback for podcasts in 2020, allowing users to choose from 0.5x to 3.5x speeds. It quickly became one of the most-used features in the podcasting section. According to Spotify’s own data, over 20% of podcast listeners regularly adjust playback speed. The success of this feature likely paved the way for bringing it to music—where users have been requesting similar functionality for years.

3. Why Music Fans Want This Feature

The demand for speed control isn’t just about listening faster. Many users want to slow down music to learn a song on guitar, analyze production techniques, or enjoy a complex arrangement without missing details. Conversely, speeding up can help power through 10-hour playlists or match a track to a workout pace. In forums like r/Spotify, requests for this feature regularly appear, with some users threatening to switch to competitors like YouTube Music (which already offers speed control for music).

4. How It Might Work: A Smooth Integration

Based on the code leaks, the music speed control will likely mirror the podcast interface. Users might find a new slider in the player screen, allowing adjustments in 0.05x increments between 0.5x and 2x (or even 3.5x, as with podcasts). The setting could be applied per track or globally, with an option to preserve pitch—a technique called time-stretching that prevents the audio from sounding like chipmunks at higher speeds. Apple Music and Amazon Music already offer similar pitch-preservation in their speed controls.

5. No Impact on Audio Quality (Yet)

One concern is whether speed adjustment will degrade sound quality. For podcasts, Spotify uses a simple resampling algorithm, but music requires higher fidelity. The good news: Spotify’s code references "losslessSpeed" in some strings, hinting that the feature may work seamlessly with its upcoming lossless tier (Spotify HiFi). If implemented properly, speed changes could use advanced stretching algorithms to maintain bitrate and clarity—a must for audiophiles.

6. What This Means for Spotify HiFi

Spotify has long promised a lossless streaming option, dubbed Spotify HiFi, but it’s yet to launch. The addition of music speed control—especially with lossless code support—could be a major selling point for the premium tier. It would differentiate Spotify from competitors like Apple Music, which lacks speed control for lossless tracks. If bundled together, HiFi subscribers could enjoy high-resolution music at their preferred tempo.

7. Potential Drawbacks: User Experience Challenges

Not every listener will welcome this change. Music is often considered an art form where tempo is part of the creator’s intent. Slowing down a pop song might ruin its energy, while speeding up a ballad could strip its emotion. Spotify will need to handle this carefully—perhaps offering speed controls as a hidden advanced option rather than a prominent default. Additionally, ensuring compatibility with playlists, collaborative sessions, and social sharing (like displaying a “sped up” label) will be crucial.

8. Competition Heats Up: Who Else Offers It?

YouTube Music has offered playback speed control for music since 2020, and Amazon Music added it in 2021. Apple Music remains the notable holdout, though it does allow speed adjustments for music videos. With Spotify’s massive user base, introducing this feature could pressure Apple and others to follow. It also aligns with Spotify’s strategy of becoming an all-purpose audio platform, blurring the line between music and podcast consumption.

9. Expected Release Date: Sometime in 2024?

Given that the code is already in the app, a public beta could arrive within months. Spotify typically tests features with a small percentage of users before a wider rollout. If the company announces it alongside Spotify HiFi (expected later this year), we might see both in a single update. Until then, keep your eyes peeled for a new slider in the Android or iOS app—and don’t forget to check the latest leaks for updates.

10. Final Thoughts: A Feature Worth Waiting For

Playback speed control for music may seem minor, but it could fundamentally change how people interact with songs. From improving accessibility for hearing-impaired listeners to aiding music education, the benefits are vast. While Spotify hasn’t confirmed anything yet, the evidence is compelling. If you’re a long-time requester of this feature, your patience may soon pay off. Join the conversation and let us know how you’d use speed control for music.

This article was based on a leak from Android Authority. For more exclusive insights, subscribe to our newsletter.