Music preferences diversify, featuring a median of six unique playlists on audio streaming platforms -- ranging from relaxed tunes to energetic dance hits.
A recent survey conducted in Germany reveals insights into the listening habits of audio streaming service users and their satisfaction with playlist recommendations. The survey, which included 1,156 participants aged 16 and over, with 748 of them being audio streaming service users, provides an interesting perspective on how these platforms are shaping music discovery and personal listening experiences.
The survey results show that playlists offer a convenient way to access familiar titles while also providing space for new discoveries. On average, users have six personal playlists, but this number varies significantly among users. Approximately 74% of audio streaming service users create their own playlists, with 21% creating only 1 or 2, and 7% having between 6 and 9 playlists.
Not all users are completely satisfied with the accuracy of playlist and song recommendations. Only 45% of users think that the music and playlist recommendations of their streaming service match their taste well. This dissatisfaction is particularly noticeable among the age group of 65 to 74 years, with only 28% agreeing that the recommendations match their taste.
However, the survey also indicates that playlists play a crucial role in music discovery. 43% of audio streaming users frequently discover new music through personalized playlists or song recommendations. This behavior of listening to others' playlists is particularly common among those aged 16 to 29, with 30% engaging in this practice.
Sebastian Klöß, an expert for consumer technology at Bitkom, shares his insights, stating that what was once the mixtape on cassette is now the digital playlist. He further explains that algorithms learn with every song a user listens to, and the more music a user listens to, the more accurate the recommendations will be.
The survey results also highlight the sharing aspect of playlists. 46% of playlist users share their playlists with family, friends, or acquaintances. Spotify, with its 626 million monthly active users, holds the biggest market share in the number of users who have created their own playlists with more than 10 playlists, far surpassing Apple Music's 93 million paid subscribers.
Interestingly, only 9% of playlist users make their playlists publicly accessible via their own profile on streaming platforms. Meanwhile, only 23% of audio streaming users frequently listen to playlists created by others.
In conclusion, while not all users are completely satisfied with the accuracy of playlist and song recommendations, playlists continue to play a significant role in music discovery and personal listening experiences for many users. As algorithms learn and improve, we can expect this trend to continue.
