Spotify is returning to its audio-first roots. The streaming giant just announced a major update that allows users to Spotify disable video playback across the entire platform. While Spotify has spent years adding video podcasts and looping visuals, it is finally giving the “audio-only” crowd exactly what they asked for.
Whether you want to save data or simply hate the visual clutter, these new toggles put you back in the driver’s seat.
What’s New? Granular Control for Every User
Previously, the option to turn off videos was mostly limited to parental controls for younger listeners. Now, this feature is rolling out to everyone—Free, Premium, and Basic subscribers alike.
A core part of the new Spotify disable video playback update is the ability to target specific types of content. You can now toggle off three distinct visual elements:
- Canvas: Those short, looping visuals that play behind your favorite songs.
- Music Videos: Full-length music videos and live performances.
- Podcast Videos: Visual episodes from your favorite creators.
Note: These settings sync across your mobile app, desktop, and even smart TVs, ensuring a consistent distraction-free experience.
Why is a video-heavy app letting you turn the videos off? According to Spotify, over 90% of listeners value features that give them more control. Many users—especially those in areas with limited data—found the automatic video loading to be a burden.
By choosing to Spotify disable video playback, you can focus entirely on the sound. For families on a Spotify Family Plan, managers can now apply these rules to all accounts on the plan, not just children under 13.
Ready to clean up your app? The update is rolling out globally this month. Follow these simple steps to find the new settings:
- Open the Spotify app and tap your Profile Icon.
- Go to Settings and Privacy.
- Select Content and Display (on mobile) or Display (on desktop).
- Toggle off Canvas, Music Videos, or All other videos.
While video ads will still appear for Free users, the rest of your experience will be purely audio-focused.
Spotify’s latest move proves that “more” isn’t always “better.” By allowing users to Spotify disable video playback, the platform is acknowledging that for many, music is meant to be heard, not seen. If you’ve been looking for a way to make Spotify feel like a music player again rather than a social media feed, your wish has been granted.
