United Adds Spotify Streaming to In-Flight Seatback Screens

Spotify’s playlists, podcasts, and audiobooks can now be accessed on United seatback screens at 35,000 feet.

United Airlines is making flights more enjoyable by partnering with Spotify to let passengers get free access to over 450 hours of handpicked playlists, audiobooks, and podcasts right from their seatback screens. This is the first time Spotify's video and audiobook options will be accessible on an airline's entertainment system, and passengers can start using the service this week.

The CEO of MileagePlus, Richard Nunn, said that “People adore Spotify's content, and the platform has a massive audience. Now, flying at 35,000 feet, our passengers can easily enjoy a wide range of entertainment. Together, we’re making content from some of the world’s top authors, podcasters, and artists more accessible than ever—delivered through the  newest in-flight technology available.” United has announced that, from next year onwards, travelers will be able to access their personal Spotify accounts directly through the in-flight entertainment displays using their own devices. Spotify, the digital music streaming service, also stated that United is the perfect partner to deliver its content to travelers. Through this agreement, it brings the Spotify experience to the sky with United, allowing travelers to listen to their favorite playlists, podcasts, and audiobooks while in flight.

A United spokesperson shared that this move comes after passengers gave the airline’s in-flight entertainment record-high satisfaction scores in its first-quarter report. Passengers on United flights with Starlink internet can already stream Spotify, YouTube, Apple Music, and more on their own devices. The airline upgraded its Wi-Fi service in March, allowing passengers to enjoy streaming from the moment the plane takes off until it lands, as long as they’re logged into their MileagePlus account