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Spotify rolls out QR code verification for Family Plan members

Spotify is introducing a new verification process requiring Premium Family plan members to scan a QR code from the plan manager's phone within seven days to confirm they live in the same household.

Engadget graphic featuring a person holding a smartphone next to the Spotify logo with text about Spotify's Family Plan QR code verification.
Image: @engadget

Spotify has begun rolling out a new verification method aimed at verifying that Premium Family plan subscribers live at the same address, according to TechCrunch. Under the new procedure, plan members are required to scan a QR code displayed on the primary plan manager's phone within seven days of receiving notice.[1][2][3]

The streaming service confirmed the enforcement actions during its third-quarter call with investors. While reports have described the shift as a crackdown on plan sharing, Spotify told investors that the QR code checks are a routine improvement rather than a crackdown.[3][5]

The tighter checks come alongside concerns that the mandatory verification step could disrupt shared-plan setups or leave some subscribers facing unexpected access issues.[1][4]

Key facts

  • Spotify is rolling out a verification method requiring Family Plan members to scan a QR code on the plan manager's phone.
  • Family Plan members must complete the QR code verification within seven days of notice.
  • The checks are intended to ensure Family Plan members reside at the same address.
  • Spotify confirmed reports of its Family Plan sharing enforcement during its third-quarter investor call.
  • Spotify told investors the rollout is a routine improvement and not a crackdown.

Sources · 5 sources

  1. EN

    Engadget@engadgetPost on X ·

    Spotify is trying to make some Premium Family members prove they live at the same address. https://t.co/172WKdm91m

    Open source
  2. TE

    Techmeme@TechmemePost on X ·

    Spotify confirms it is rolling out a new family plan verification method requiring members to scan QR codes on plan managers' phones within seven days of notice (@sarahpereztc / TechCrunch) (Visit Techmeme dot com for the link and full context!)

    Open source
  3. TE

    TechmemeArticle ·

    Spotify confirms it is rolling out a new Family Plan verification method requiring members to scan QR codes on plan managers' phones within seven days of notice (Sarah Perez/TechCrunch) Sarah Perez / TechCrunch : Spotify confirms it is rolling out a new Family Plan verification method requiring members to scan QR codes on plan managers' phones within seven days of notice — Spotify confirmed the reports of its crackdown on Family Plan sharing during its third-quarter call with investors …

    Open source
  4. NE

    NeowinFeed@NeowinFeedPost on X ·

    Spotify is tightening shared-plan checks, but a new verification step could leave some subscribers facing an unexpected problem. #Spotify #FamilyPlan https://t.co/YNcxYcKX6D

    Open source
  5. TE

    TechCrunch@TechCrunchPost on X ·

    Spotify told investors its roll out of QR code verification to ensure Family Plan members live in the same household is not a "crackdown," just a routine improvement. https://t.co/g98muW8tvx

    Open source