Spotify’s much-awaited HiFi update could finally be closer than we think. According to recent leaks, Spotify is preparing to launch its lossless HiFi feature, which was originally announced back in early 2021. The latest update, v1.2.66, contains several clues pointing toward the impending release of this feature.
A key discovery comes from Spicetify, a command-line interface tool for Spotify’s desktop app, which shared screenshots revealing references to the new feature.
Within the latest update, users can find mentions of ‘lossless’ audio in multiple parts of the interface, including the ‘Connect to the device’ sidebar and the Now Playing Bar. The most notable addition is a new audio quality setting that offers a ‘Lossless’ option, providing audio up to 24-bit/44.1kHz in FLAC format. Spotify is expected to offer this feature to Premium subscribers, further elevating the service’s appeal.
Along with the lossless audio, there are indications that Spotify is adding other exciting audio features. According to code discoveries, there are hints of a ‘cleaner, more natural sound,’ which could be a new technology exclusive to certain headphones. Additionally, spatial audio has been mentioned, though there are no details on whether Spotify will use Dolby Atmos or a proprietary audio solution. At the moment, there’s no sign of high-resolution audio beyond the 44.1kHz sample rate, leaving some fans disappointed by the limitations.
Despite the leaks, the new features are not yet available in the app, with users only able to see references to them via Spicetify. As of now, there’s no confirmed release date, and while the feature could launch in the near future, there’s no guarantee it will be available anytime soon. After all, Apple Music, Amazon Music, Qobuz, Tidal, and others already offer lossless audio, leaving Spotify to play catch-up.