The company will now rely on its editorially curated Viral Hits playlists to showcase songs gaining momentum online, replacing the automated chart system that for years tracked rapid spikes in streaming activity.
Unlike the former viral charts, which were generated algorithmically, the new playlists will be curated by Spotify editors using internal data and audience engagement metrics to determine which songs deserve attention.
The move signals a major change in Spotify’s approach to music discovery and comes amid growing conversations within the industry about artificial intelligence, manipulated streaming activity and the reliability of algorithm-based rankings.
For years, Spotify’s viral charts served as a launchpad for breakout songs, internet sensations and emerging artists. However, the exact formula used to determine what qualified as “viral” was never fully disclosed by the company.
Sources familiar with the matter say there had been concerns internally that the charts did not always reflect genuine popularity among listeners. By transitioning to curated playlists, Spotify may now have greater oversight regarding which songs receive prominent placement on the platform.
Currently, Spotify operates three versions of the new Viral Hits playlists — a global edition alongside region-specific playlists for the United Kingdom/Ireland and Japan.
The discontinued viral charts had recently become notable for featuring several AI-assisted tracks. Songs such as “I Run” by HAVEN., which reportedly used AI-generated vocals, gained visibility through the rankings alongside tracks like “We Are Charlie Kirk” by Spalexma and releases from Sienna Rose.
Although Spotify has not directly linked the removal of the charts to the growing presence of AI-generated music, the timing has sparked speculation within the music industry.
Responding to questions about the decision, a Spotify spokesperson said:
“Spotify has retired its viral charts as part of an ongoing effort to focus on features that best reflect how listeners engage with music today.”
The representative added:
“Listeners can continue to discover trending music through Spotify’s Top Charts and editorial playlists, including our ‘Viral Hits’ playlist.”
The development comes just days before Spotify’s upcoming Investor Day event and follows several recent product announcements from the Swedish streaming giant.
Among the latest updates introduced by the company are verification badges for human artist profiles, Artist Profile Protection tools designed to improve account security, and new AI credit labels that allow musicians to disclose when artificial intelligence has been used during the music creation process.
Spotify has also launched SongDNA, a feature aimed at expanding song credits into a more interactive and engaging experience for listeners.
Industry observers believe the company’s latest changes reflect broader efforts to balance technological innovation with transparency and authenticity at a time when AI-generated content is rapidly reshaping the music business.
While the viral charts may now be gone, Spotify appears determined to keep listeners connected to emerging music trends — only this time, with a stronger human touch behind the selections.