Spotify’s new ‘Reserved’ feature gives fans early access to concert tickets

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Spotify is introducing a new feature called “Reserved”, designed to give some of an artist’s biggest fans early access to concert tickets before they go on sale to the general public.

The streaming platform announced that eligible Spotify Premium subscribers in the United States will soon have the chance to purchase tickets that have been specifically set aside for them based on their activity on the app.

This will be the first rollout, with more countries added at a later stage.

The move comes after fans complained about the increasingly frustrating experience of buying concert tickets, with popular shows often selling out within minutes or tickets ending up in the hands of resellers.

With “Reserved”, Spotify will identify what it describes as an artist’s most dedicated listeners, offering them access to up to two tickets during a dedicated purchase window before public sales begin.

According to the platform, eligibility will be determined through fan engagement, including factors such as streaming habits, sharing music and other activity linked to an artist on Spotify.

The platform also says it will verify users to help ensure tickets are being offered to genuine fans rather than bots.

Fans who qualify will receive an email and an in-app notification informing them that tickets have been reserved for them.

They will then have a limited period, usually around 24 hours, to complete their purchase through Spotify’s ticketing partners.

However, Spotify noted that not every fan will gain access.

The streaming platform acknowledged that there are often far more dedicated listeners than available seats, meaning invitations will be limited depending on the artist, venue and tour.

The feature is expected to roll out first on selected tours before expanding to more artists and events over time.

Spotify says the aim is to help more tickets end up with fans who actively support artists rather than professional resellers who often snap up tickets during general sales.

The company added that users interested in receiving “Reserved” offers should make sure concert notifications are switched on, location settings are enabled and their Spotify app is up to date.