Pandora is launch music partner for new developer kit from makers of Snapchat

Pandora has been named the music streaming launch partner for Snap Kit, the developer platform from the company behind popular social network Snapchat. Through the deal, Pandora is powering a special music feature for all of the Snap Inc. app’s U.S. users. Pandora is supporting sharing of songs one-on-one, in groups, and in Snap Stories. The feature will roll out soon for all Snap and Pandora users in the U.S.

The tracks will appear on special song cards in the Snapchat app, with album art on top of an animated background. The service is available via Premium Access. That means that even non-paying Pandora listeners can send and receive songs. After receiving a song, the listener can swipe up to listen to the tune directly on Pandora. Non-subscribers will have to watch a short video ad before hearing the music.

“This will be a powerful and comprehensive social integration with music,” said Chris Phillips, Pandora’s chief product officer. “The Snapchat product experience and user base are primed for sharing, and our collaboration will provide a creative and compelling way to discover and enjoy music in a way that’s intuitive to Snapchatters.”

“We’re always looking for more ways to bring Snapchat into the world and the world into Snapchat,” said Jacob Andreou, Vice President of Product for Snap Inc. “With their vast music library, Pandora’s partnership with Snap Kit will help us make it easier and more fun for Snapchatters to share the music they love.”

Anna Washenko