Spotify Cracks Down on Family Plan Sharing with QR Code Verification

Spotify is intensifying its efforts to enforce its Family Plan terms, requiring users to scan a QR code on the plan manager's phone to verify they reside at the same address. This move aims to curb widespread sharing of premium accounts beyond the intended household.

This policy update comes as Spotify reported strong third-quarter results, exceeding subscriber forecasts and seeing a 10% surge in its stock. The company's co-CEO confirmed the QR code verification method as a "routine improvement" to ensure compliance with Family Plan rules, indicating a strategic effort to optimize revenue streams while navigating the evolving digital landscape, including the potential impact of AI agents.