Music streaming services have long relied on algorithms to curate personalized listening experiences. But what if you could capture back some control, shaping those recommendations to better reflect your evolving tastes? Deezer is betting that listeners want exactly that, with the launch of a new feature called Flow Tuner. The update allows users to directly influence the algorithm powering their “Flow” – Deezer’s endlessly playing, personalized playlist – by activating or deactivating specific genres.
The move comes as competition intensifies in the streaming music market, with Spotify and Apple Music dominating the landscape. Deezer is hoping to differentiate itself by offering a more transparent and customizable experience, appealing to users who feel increasingly dictated to by automated recommendations. The company’s aim is to move beyond the “black box” of algorithmic curation, giving listeners a more direct hand in shaping their sonic world. This new feature is designed to enhance the music transfer process, making it easier for users to bring their existing libraries and preferences to the platform.
Taking the Reins of Your Algorithm
Deezer’s Flow feature, a mainstay of the app for over a decade, has always aimed to create a continuous stream of music based on a user’s favorite tracks, artists, and genres. While users could previously adjust the overall mood and genre focus, Flow Tuner offers a more granular level of control. Now, listeners can actively choose to include or exclude entire genres – or even subgenres – from their Flow, effectively fine-tuning the algorithm to deliver a more tailored experience.
(Image credit: Deezer)
This level of customization allows users to not only reinforce their existing preferences but also to explore new musical territory. By adding genres they might not typically listen to, users can open themselves up to unexpected discoveries, potentially expanding their musical horizons. The goal, according to Deezer’s head of product Marin Lorant, is to make recommendations feel less like a predetermined path and more like a collaborative process. “Flow Tuner is based on a simple idea: recommendations should not be a black box,” Lorant said. “Our users want to find the right music for the right moment, and have the control to impact how this happens. By allowing them to activate, remove or explore genres with a single gesture, the algorithm becomes a tool that they can shape themselves. It’s more accurate, more personal, and it opens the door to more discovery.”
Beyond Personalization: AI and Seamless Transitions
Deezer’s efforts to refine its user experience extend beyond just Flow Tuner. The company has also integrated an artificial intelligence detection tool designed to filter out AI-generated music from appearing in users’ Flows. This move reflects a growing concern within the music industry about the potential impact of AI on artistic creation and the integrity of streaming platforms.
For new users, Deezer is streamlining the onboarding process with its “Tune My Music” feature. This tool simplifies the transition from other streaming services – like Spotify and Apple Music – by allowing users to easily transfer their playlists, albums, artists, and songs to Deezer. This feature is a direct response to the increasing consumer desire for portability and control over their music libraries, and aims to lower the barrier to entry for potential subscribers.
The company is clearly positioning itself as an alternative for listeners seeking more agency over their listening experience. While Spotify and Apple Music continue to dominate the market, Deezer’s focus on personalization and user control could resonate with a growing segment of music fans who are becoming increasingly aware of the influence of algorithms on their musical tastes. The ability to transfer playlists from other services is a key component of this strategy.
Deezer will be closely monitoring user feedback on Flow Tuner to further refine the feature and ensure it delivers on its promise of a more personalized and engaging listening experience. The company has not yet announced a specific timeline for future updates, but has indicated a commitment to ongoing development based on user input.
