It’s been over four years since Spotify unveiled plans for a lossless audio tier, and fans are still eagerly awaiting its arrival. Despite numerous hints and leaks, the service remains elusive.
Recently, however, there are signs that progress might finally be underway. New code references in Spotify’s desktop app suggest the lossless tier is still in development and could be approaching a launch. According to reverse engineer Chris Messina, the code includes mentions of “lossless” in the latest app update.
These snippets primarily pertain to help cards designed to guide users on leveraging the lossless service. Statements like “Lossless music, now in premium” and “best sound quality on Spotify for music in up to 24-bit/44.1 kHz” have surfaced. Some cards also alert users to issues such as unavailable songs or connectivity problems that might affect playback. They recommend enjoying lossless audio on Spotify Connect-compatible or wired devices for optimal quality.
On Reddit, a user noted similar changes in the mobile app, asserting that the feature exists within the code but remains inactive. The app promises “high-fidelity music in up to 24-bit/44.1 kHz.”
Nevertheless, these code references do not guarantee that a launch is imminent. Past leaks have appeared without resulting in the anticipated high-quality audio tier.
When queried about this and other premium offerings in recent earnings calls, Spotify executives, including CEO Daniel Ek, have been tight-lipped, only suggesting that they’re focusing on premium products for “super fans,” without specifying timelines.
In a recent investor call, Spotify’s Chief Business Officer, Alex Norstrom, mentioned ongoing investments in premium tiers, emphasizing their potential to enhance user satisfaction and provide new opportunities.
Back in 2021, Spotify announced Spotify HiFi, promising CD-quality, lossless audio. Licensing issues were cited as reasons for its delay. However, new deals with major labels like Warner Music and Universal Music Group in early 2025 might smooth the path for the much-anticipated tier.
There’s also speculation about a premium Music Pro tier launching later in 2025, offering high-quality streaming and additional features. Spotify has chosen not to comment on this development.
As audio aficionados keep their fingers crossed, these updates hint at exciting possibilities on the horizon.
