Spotify has today rolled out an invite-only basis in Japan.
Following this launch, Spotify will now be available in 60 global markets.
Available on mobile, tablet, desktop and PlayStation, Spotify offers Japan its first ad-supported service as well as its Premium 980 yen a month, service.
Japanese users will have access to a range of playlists curated by Spotify’s Tokyo-based team of music experts, including ‘Tokyo Super Hits’ and ‘Best of J-Rock’.
Gaming and Running modes are also available alongside Japanese and global streaming charts. Song lyrics support on mobile will be making its global Spotify debut in Japan - alongside desktop lyric support.
This news comes only hours after unconfirmed rumours concerning the streaming giant's imminent acquisition of SoundCloud started to surface.
Reports began circulating in July that SoundCloud founders and investors were considering selling the company, which they value at around $1bn. However, sources claim that SoundCloud was struggling to find a buyer at this price. Both Spotify and SoundCloud declined to comment.
Spotify welcome Ichiro Tamaki, formerly Vice President of Amazon Devices and Kindle Content, Japan, as Spotify's General Manager for Japan. Ichiro will be based in Tokyo and lead the day-to-day running of Spotify Japan, effective as of October 1st.
Hannes Graah, currently Spotify's managing director, Japan, will take on a new company role as Global Head of New Markets.
“We’re incredibly excited to launch Spotify with a uniquely Japanese music experience,” said Daniel Ek, Spotify founder CEO. “With Spotify’s revolutionary discovery and personalisation features that fit your every mood, we aim to help people enjoy more music and connect more artists with fans than ever before.”
