Spotify debuts AI DJ in Kenya with personalised music, smart commentary for premium users

Spotify debuts AI DJ in Kenya with personalised music, smart commentary for premium users

With Kenya among the over 40 new countries receiving this update, Spotify is signalling its commitment to expanding its footprint in Africa.

Spotify has rolled out its innovative AI-powered DJ feature to premium users in Kenya, marking a notable expansion of the music streaming platform’s personalised listening experience.

By launching the AI DJ, which was initially introduced in select markets including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, it will offer a more personalised music selection experience paired with realistic commentary.

The feature mimics the flow of a live radio presenter, using generative AI and voice technology to deliver music recommendations, contextual insights, and smooth transitions between tracks.

According to Spotify, the AI DJ analyses users' listening history, likes and dislikes, and trending tracks to deliver real-time playlists tailored to each listener’s tastes.

It will also provide spoken commentary in a synthetic voice, making music discovery feel more interactive and immersive.

“This is like having a radio DJ who knows you personally,” said Sten Garmark, Spotify’s vice president of Product.

“With AI DJ, we are giving listeners an entirely new way to engage with their music, a blend of advanced machine learning and a deeply human-like touch.”

Premium users can now access the feature by navigating to the "Music" section on their Spotify mobile app. The AI DJ option appears as a tile that, once activated, takes users through a dynamic mix of their favourite artists, rediscovered classics, and fresh finds.

For many in Kenya’s vibrant music scene, the feature could be a game-changer.

By leveraging AI to surface hyper-personalised content, Spotify aims to connect listeners more deeply with local and international music.

“This kind of tech is exciting because it could shine a spotlight on emerging Kenyan artists in a very personal way,” said Caleb Kimathi, a Nairobi-based Spotify user.

“It’s no longer just about what’s trending globally, it’s about what resonates with you as an individual.”

With Kenya among the over 40 new countries receiving this update, Spotify is signalling its commitment to expanding its footprint in Africa.

The AI DJ is currently available in English and continues to evolve based on user feedback.

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