Spotify Running Mode helps match tunes to tempo
Developed over time first seen 2 months ago
Spotify has launched an AI-powered Running Mode for Premium subscribers, allowing runners to create playlists tailored to their preferred tempo, musical tastes and workout goals. The feature is intended to make selecting suitable running music quicker, while offering optional spoken coaching prompts.
Running Mode includes 25 preset playlists that can be adjusted by genre, duration, beats per minute and training style, including interval, steady and pyramid sessions. It is available on Spotify’s iOS app in the US, UK, Canada, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand and Sweden; unlike Spotify’s earlier running feature, retired in 2018, it does not automatically adapt music to a runner’s pace.
- Spotify launches AI-powered Running Mode for Premium subscribers
- Playlists can be tailored by BPM, genre and workout type
- Available on iOS in seven English-speaking and Nordic markets
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Spotify is a music-streaming service with free and paid subscription tiers. Its Premium service lets users listen without adverts and offers additional features, including tools designed for particular activities.
Many runners choose music with a steady beat because it can help them keep a comfortable rhythm during training. Workout plans can vary from sustained easy runs to sessions that alternate faster and slower efforts, so playlists may be organised around pace, length or style of exercise.
Artificial intelligence is increasingly used by streaming services to make recommendations based on listening habits and preferences. Spoken prompts are also common in fitness apps, where they can provide timing or encouragement without requiring a runner to look at a screen.
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters argue that Running Mode makes exercise more accessible by taking the friction out of choosing music and offering structured playlists for different training goals. Matching tracks to a chosen tempo and allowing optional coaching may help runners maintain motivation and consistency, while the user retains control over genre, duration and workout style.
The case against
Critics may argue that the feature is less useful than its AI branding suggests because it relies on preset choices rather than responding automatically to a runner’s actual pace. They may also prefer simpler, non-algorithmic listening or dedicated running tools, particularly if spoken prompts and curated recommendations interrupt the personal, flexible nature of a run.