Spotify Faces Backlash Over 'Worst' 2024 Wrapped Features and Delays

Spotify users expressed dissatisfaction with Spotify Wrapped 2024, citing a lack of engaging features and detailed insights compared to its competitors, Apple Music and YouTube Music. Many noted the absence of granular data, such as their most-played albums and preferred genres—features that were available in previous editions. This omission left users feeling let down, especially when competitors provided detailed listening analytics, such as Apple Music’s exhaustive breakdown of top albums and listening habits.

Preferred Genres and Top Albums Missing

One of the significant complaints was the removal of users’ preferred genres from Wrapped 2024. This feature, once a favorite among users, was notably absent this year. Spotify also failed to bring back insights into users' top albums, a recurring request that remains unmet. These omissions gave rival services an edge, with Apple Music Replay being praised for its comprehensive and engaging approach to user listening data.

New Features Receive Mixed Reactions

While Wrapped 2024 introduced new elements, such as an AI-generated podcast analyzing users’ listening habits and a “music evolution” tool, these failed to impress many users. The “music evolution” feature showcased trends using quirky descriptions like “Pink Pilates Princess Strut Pop” and “Surf Crush Beach Reggae.” However, users criticized the new features as superficial and uninspired, stating they lacked the depth and personalization of past editions.

Delayed Launch Fuels Frustration

Adding to the disappointment, Spotify Wrapped 2024 was released on December 4, making it the latest drop in recent years. In contrast, Wrapped debuted in late November in 2022 and 2023, with even earlier releases in prior years. This delay led to frustration among users eager to share their personalized insights on social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and X.

Social Media Reactions Highlight Discontent

Social media was rife with criticism about Wrapped 2024’s presentation and content. One user remarked, “So boring this year. Was expecting something interesting,” while another commented, “We need top albums and genres,” emphasizing Apple Music’s superiority. A viral TikTok video that criticized the release amassed over 353,000 likes, with the creator branding it as “one of Spotify’s worst wraps.” Many users felt that the AI-generated content lacked the thoughtful curation of previous years, further fueling the backlash.