Usage of Spotify API in social media app

[Swaraj9]

I am developing a social media application that enables users to add music from the Spotify API to their posts and stories (images or videos). I would like to know if this usage is permitted under Spotify’s terms and, if so, how I can request the necessary permissions. Could you kindly guide me on the appropriate steps to contact Spotify for approval?

[Ximzend]

Hi @Swaraj9 

Thank you for asking this in the Spotify Community, and Welcome!

It sounds like you're looking to integrate the Spotify API into your social media application to allow users to add music to their posts and stories. That's an interesting idea! Let's look at what the Spotify Developer guidelines say about this.

Based on the information and sources at Spotify for Developers, there are a few important things to consider regarding whether this usage is permitted under Spotify’s terms:

• Prohibited Applications: The Spotify Developer Policy explicitly states that you should not create applications that synchronize any sound recordings with any visual media, including any advertising, film, television program, slideshow, video, or similar content. Your plan to add music to images or videos for social media posts and stories could be interpreted as falling under this category.
• Streaming Restrictions: Generally, the streaming of music sound recordings through the Spotify Platform is only permitted for Spotify Premium subscribers. Embedding full music tracks into social media posts might be considered streaming, and this could have implications for users who are not on a Premium plan.
• Commercial Use: If your social media application has commercial aspects (like advertising or subscriptions), the commercial use of Streaming SDAs is generally restricted. While there are limited exceptions for Non-Streaming SDAs, integrating music playback might categorize your app as a Streaming SDA.
• Transfer of Content: The Developer Terms also restrict the transfer of Spotify Content to third parties, especially for advertising or monetization purposes. Embedding music into social media posts could be seen as a form of making Spotify content available on another platform.

So, what steps can you take to figure out if your specific use case is allowed and potentially request permission? Here’s what I recommend based on the guidelines:

1. Thoroughly Review the Terms and Policies: Make sure you carefully read the Spotify Developer Terms and the Spotify Developer Policy, paying close attention to the sections on prohibited applications, streaming, commercial use, and restrictions.
2. Check the Design and Branding Guidelines: If your application is deemed permissible, you'll need to follow the Design & Branding Guidelines for displaying any Spotify content, including using the Spotify logo and correctly displaying artwork and metadata.
3. Understand Quota Modes: New apps start in development mode with a limit of 25 users. For a wider audience, you’ll need to apply for extended quota mode.
4. Submit a Detailed Quota Extension Request: The most important step to clarify your specific usage is to submit a quota extension request. You can do this by logging into your Developer Dashboard, navigating to your app's settings, and selecting the "Quota extension Request" tab.
5. Clearly Explain Your Use Case: In the quota extension request form, provide a comprehensive and transparent description of how you plan to integrate Spotify music into your social media application. Include details about:

• How users will add music to their posts and stories.
• How the music will be played back (e.g., as a short clip, full track).
• Whether the music will be synchronized with the visual content.
• The intended audience of your application.
• Any commercial aspects of your social media platform.

6. Highlight the Value: Explain how your integration would benefit Spotify users and the Spotify ecosystem while still adhering to Spotify's guidelines.

7. Be Prepared for the Review Process: The Spotify team will review your application for compliance. This can take up to six weeks.

8. Maintain Open Communication: Be sure to respond promptly to any questions or feedback you receive from the Spotify review team.

The Spotify for Developers webpagina doesn't offer a direct contact method for seeking permission outside the standard API functionalities. The quota extension request process is the primary way to explain your specific needs and application to Spotify.

I hope this answers your question. If you have other questions, the Spotify Community is here to help!