Spotify launched Premium Early Access in India on August 28, giving subscribers on Standard, Platinum, and Student plans exclusive first access to select new releases up to three days before general availability. Universal Music Group is the first label partner to activate under the programme through its ‘Hear It First’ campaign.
The rollout’s opening wave features two Hindi artists. Badshah and Divya Kumar’s new single ‘Chimna’ and Harrdy Sandhu’s ‘Stuck On You’ both dropped August 28 for Premium listeners, with general access opening to all users on August 31.
The feature works automatically, eligible releases appear in subscribers’ feeds without any additional steps required. Once the early access window closes, the music becomes available to all listeners, including those on Spotify’s free tier. No content is permanently restricted.
Spotify has clarified that not every new release will carry an early access window. Participation depends on individual agreements between the platform, the artist, and their label. More local and international artists are expected to join the programme in the coming weeks.