Spotify and Uber have revealed an innovative collaboration which will allow users to stream their own music during taxi journeys.
The announcement was made during a “global press call” hosted by Uber chief executive Travis Kalanick and Spotify CEO Daniel Elk.
The feature will be available for Spotify Premium members and is being launched in ten cities, including London, Los Angeles and New York on Friday (21/10).
When an Uber customer requests a ride via their iPhone or Android handset, they will be able to make use of the integration and listen to their own Spotify playlists through a purposely re-designed app.
The project has been in the pipeline for some time. The two companies uploaded an advertisement 11 months ago which portrays the process from the customer’s point of view.
Strategic partnerships now commonplace
Strategic partnerships are nothing new for either party. Spotify united with Facebook in 2011 and secured millions of first-time customers, while it has also completed deals to have its service installed in Volvo and Ford cars.
Uber has previously joined with the National Football League (NFL) and Starbucks in an attempt to edge its way into the public’s consciousness.
Positive news for both companies
Uber will hope this high-profile partnership helps differentiate its service in a highly competitive field, and despite recent controversy, revenues are expected to rise to $10 billion by the end of 2015.
Cars are one of the most popular places to listen to music, with 50% of adults listening to their in-car radios. With this launch, Spotify has looked to position itself as a competitor and give more choice to drivers and passengers.
To promote the partnership, there will be a series of live music events and surprise ‘ride-alongs’ with stars such as Diplo and Andrew W.K performing.