Spotify launches personal accounts on United seatback screens

Spotify said on Thursday that its listeners on United Airlines flights can now log in to their personal accounts on seatback screens. The feature lets passengers stream their own libraries, playlists and video podcasts at 35,000 feet.

To log in, a passenger connects a phone to the United Wi-Fi network and taps the Spotify tile on the seatback screen. They then scan a QR code with their phone's camera and confirm the pairing. Passengers do not need a Wi-Fi pass or a MileagePlus sign-in to use it. Users who are already logged in to Spotify on their phone will connect automatically.

Once connected, passengers can reach their personalised Home feed, saved playlists, Your Library, DJ and music videos. Flagship playlists such as Today's Top Hits and New Music Friday are also available, including new releases that drop mid-flight. Spotify audio keeps playing while passengers use other seatback features, such as the flight map. A small on-screen player lets them control playback without returning to the Spotify app.

Spotify's Ian Geller, vice-president of business development, called the launch "a major milestone". He said passengers can bring "their recommendations, saved library, and favorite songs, podcasts, audiobooks, and videos" to the screen in front of them.

Built on Starlink

The feature runs on Starlink satellite Wi-Fi. United is installing Starlink across its fleet, and the Spotify service is rolling out on aircraft that already have it. Earlier, United's in-flight entertainment depended on systems built for planes without internet. Those offered canned playlists and curated content. Last year, Spotify brought a curated selection of its content to United seatbacks. This new step is the first time personal accounts have been offered on those screens.

Spotify has not said which United flights already offer the feature, or when the rollout will be complete. Spotify has also not said whether the feature will reach other airlines.