How (and why) to Create a Spotify Video Ad

Spotify is making the shift to video, and so should you! 

Earlier this year, Spotify introduced self-serve video ads and we’re all for it. The popular music streaming company’s focus relied heavily on audio, and for good reason. But, as their platform continues to expand (Podcasts are super popular right now), so do their ad options. 

In this article, we’re sharing everything you need to know about Spotify’s self-serve video ads, why you should use them, and how. 

Let’s get started!

What is a Spotify video ad and how does it work?

Spotify’s self-serve video ads are exactly what they sound like: video ads. So what makes them so special?

Many publishers say that 85% of Facebook videos are watched without sound. But on Spotify, marketers have the unique ability to engage with 100% of the users through audio. 

Now you’re probably thinking: Okay. So audio ads are great, but what good will Spotify be for video ads if users are passively streaming content?

Good question.

“Video ads are served to listeners between songs and podcasts during commercial ad breaks, and includes a clickable companion image and the call-to-action of your choice” 

–Spotify Ad Studio team

Why should you do it?

Now that you have a better understanding of what exactly Spotify’s self-serve video ads are, here’s why you should consider using them:

It’s no secret that video marketing is super important for your business. In fact, according to a recent report, video is expected to make up 82% of internet traffic by 2021.

So, by serving users a combination of video and audio ads at opportune moments, you’re bound to see some real results. 

“We’ve seen that by reaching audiences in both in-focus and screenless moments, running both video ads and audio ads produces higher brand results than running video ads alone, including a 1.9x increase in ad recall and a 2.2x increase in brand awareness”. 

–Spotify Ad Studio team

How do you do it?

You can easily create a Spotify video ad in minutes, here’s how:

1. Tell Spotify what you’re promoting
   

   Whatever it is you’re trying to promote, just let Spotify know so that they can serve your ad to the right audience.

2. Choose your format and set your budget and targeting
   

   Decide whether you want your video’s orientation to be vertical (best for smartphones) or horizontal (ideal for tablets and desktops). Then decide on and set the budget for your ad and choose your target audience.

3. Upload your creative and add your CTA
   

   Finally, upload your video to the Spotify Ad Studio, add your call to action (CTA) and publish! Easy peasy.

Check out Spotify’s additional requirements and video specs here.