Spotify now lets you turn off all its videos

Spotify, the global audio streaming service, has introduced new user controls worldwide that allow subscribers to completely disable video playback within its mobile and desktop applications. The feature, which began rolling out in early 2025, provides granular settings to block all video content, including music videos and podcast video episodes, in response to user feedback seeking a more audio-focused, data-efficient, and distraction-free listening experience. This update marks a significant shift for a platform that has increasingly integrated visual elements over recent years. The new controls are accessible within the app's settings menu, specifically under "Content and display" on mobile devices and in the "Display" section on desktop. They consist of two primary toggles: one to disable the existing "Canvas" feature—the short, looping background videos that play during music tracks—and a new, broader toggle that blocks access to all other video content, such as full music videos and video podcasts. This gives users unprecedented control over their visual experience on the platform. A notable aspect of the rollout is its application to Family Plan subscriptions. The primary account manager for a Family Plan can now enforce these video restrictions across all profiles linked to the subscription, allowing for centralized content management. While the feature is being deployed globally across all platforms, availability may vary slightly by region, with some users, like those in the UK, reporting a staggered rollout. This move is widely seen as Spotify addressing diverse user preferences, catering to those who prefer pure audio to conserve mobile data, reduce distractions, or simply enjoy a more traditional listening interface.