Spotify’s AI DJ now takes voice commands—Here’s how it work

Spotify has expanded its AI DJ feature, enabling Premium users to interact with it through voice commands. The update allows listeners to request specific genres, artists, moods, or eras using natural language, making the music curation process more immediate and responsive.

The new feature is available in over 60 countries, including the United States and Canada. It is currently limited to English-language voice input.

A hands-free update to Spotify’s AI DJ

The AI DJ, first launched in 2023, uses machine learning and generative AI to curate music sessions based on a user’s listening history. It also includes commentary, voiced by an AI-generated version of Spotify executive Xavier “X” Jernigan. This voice now responds to spoken commands such as “play something upbeat” or “switch to 90s rock.”

To use the feature, users open the Spotify app, search for “DJ,” and start playback. While the DJ is active, users can hold a button in the lower-right corner of the screen to issue voice commands. The AI DJ then adjusts the playlist in real time.

Feature limited to Premium subscribers

Spotify confirmed that voice interactions are exclusive to Premium-tier users. The company has not indicated whether the feature will expand to free users in the future. Users must update to the latest version of the app to access the voice capability.

According to Spotify, more than 90% of Premium users who have tried the DJ feature continue to use it regularly. However, specific adoption numbers for the new voice functionality have not been disclosed.

Part of a larger shift toward conversational interfaces

This update is part of a growing trend across the tech and entertainment sectors, where companies are integrating voice-based interfaces into apps and devices. Spotify’s move mirrors developments in smart assistants, in-car systems, and connected devices that prioritize hands-free interaction.

While Spotify has offered limited voice search tools in the past, this is the first time users can use voice to directly influence and control an AI-curated music stream.

Still limited in scope

At launch, the voice feature supports only English. There is no timeline for multilingual support. Additionally, voice commands are limited to the DJ feature and do not extend to podcast playback or other Spotify content.

The voice behind the AI DJ remains that of Jernigan, who previously hosted Spotify’s "The Get Up" and has since become the face—and now the voice—of the company’s AI music assistant.

Rollout and user access

The feature is gradually being rolled out to Spotify’s iOS and Android apps. It is currently not available in all regions, and access is contingent on language and subscription status.