How to Disable Music Videos in Spotify - WIRED

What the report says

WIRED reports that Spotify has added a clearer way to turn off music videos after a recent update made video playback the default for songs and podcasts that include visual content. The article says some users were frustrated because videos could start automatically in the background, potentially changing the listening experience when a video version includes different audio, sketches or sound effects, while also using more mobile data and battery power.

According to WIRED, Spotify now includes settings that let users disable music videos entirely, alongside existing controls for Canvas, the short animated visuals that can accompany tracks, and other video content such as video podcasts. On mobile, users can open the profile menu, go to “Settings and privacy,” then “Content and display,” and use the “Videos and Canvas” toggles. On desktop, the controls are found by opening the profile menu, selecting “Settings,” and scrolling to the same section.

WIRED contributor Justin Pot wrote that testing the setting removed music video markers from playlists and albums, as well as music video sections on artist pages. The article noted one remaining inconsistency: a “Switch to video” button may still appear in the Now Playing sidebar, but selecting it prompts users to re-enable videos in settings.

The change matters for Spotify listeners who primarily want audio playback, especially those managing limited data plans, battery life or a preference for album versions of songs. More broadly, the report frames the update as part of ongoing user concerns about Spotify’s interface choices and how prominently the platform pushes visual and algorithmic features within a music-listening app.