Spotify has introduced a new podcast performance metric called Plays in Spotify for Podcasters.
The metric counts how many times an episode is played for at least one second. This is different from the existing Streams metric, which requires listeners to stay for at least 60 seconds. According to Spotify, the change gives creators more insight into how many users are initiating playback, even if they don’t continue listening.
The new metric is now live on the Spotify for Podcasters web dashboard. A mobile rollout is expected soon.
Expanding how performance is measured
By adding Plays, Spotify is aligning its podcast analytics with metrics common on other content platforms. Video platforms like YouTube and TikTok count a view after just a few seconds of engagement. Spotify’s move brings podcasting closer to those standards.
This update also responds to feedback from creators and advertisers who have pushed for more detailed podcast data. Without play-level stats, it has been difficult to measure early drop-off rates or the effectiveness of episode intros and titles.
Spotify says that the new data point will not replace Streams or other existing metrics. Instead, it adds another layer to help creators better understand audience behavior.
How the metrics affect creators and advertisers
More granular metrics could influence how creators report performance to brands and partners. Having access to both Plays and Streams gives a fuller picture of listener behavior, from initial taps to longer engagement. This may affect how creators present performance in sponsorship pitches and how advertisers evaluate campaign reach.
Spotify has not said whether the new metric will influence discovery algorithms or chart rankings.
The addition of Plays continues a broader trend across platforms to increase transparency around content performance. Other major podcast distributors, such as Apple Podcasts and Amazon Music, have yet to introduce similar short-duration playback metrics.
Spotify has not announced further changes to its podcast measurement tools, but the platform has indicated it will continue developing features to support creators.
Featured image courtesy: Spotify