Strava finally gets Spotify controls

The partnership eliminates the need to switch between applications.

Strava has announced a partnership with Spotify to integrate listening controls directly into its app. Previously, anyone checking in to the fitness tracker had to switch to the Spotify app - arguably not too complicated, but nonetheless time consuming.

Once a Strava user confirms that they want to stream Spotify on the app, a small widget will appear at the bottom left of the recording screen. Clicking it brings up a pop-up on the map to provide options to pause or change whatever is being listened to.

Spotify

Strava claims to have 100 million users worldwide, but, with Spotify's 500 million listeners (and many fitness tracker competitors in the market), the integration is a sign clear that Strava wants to retain and grow its audience. Mateo Ortega, VP of Connected Partnerships at Strava, points out, "This new feature further solidifies Strava's position at the center of connected fitness and continues to demonstrate the power of the global community of active people on Strava."

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Strava is also taking control of Spotify's 'Workout' playlist creation from April 20th. What "strava curated sounds" look like is something we'll have to wait and see.

In the meantime, while both apps have paid options, you can try Spotify on Strava using the free versions of each.