What is the key difference between 'saves' and 'follows' in terms of user engagement and how each impacts visibility on Spotify?
The key difference lies in the level and type of engagement they represent. 'Saves' indicate a direct, active decision by a listener to add a specific track to their personal library for repeated listening. This signifies a strong affinity for that particular song. 'Follows', on the other hand, represent a broader commitment to an artist's overall output. A follow means the listener will be notified of new releases and updates from the artist. In terms of visibility, both saves and follows influence Spotify's algorithm. Saves directly impact a track's potential for inclusion in algorithmic playlists like Discover Weekly, as they signal the song's appeal and memorability. Follows increase the likelihood of a track being featured in Release Radar, as the algorithm prioritizes new music from artists a user follows. Follows also influence the artist's overall visibility on the platform, potentially leading to more profile visits and organic discovery.