Streaming Milestone: BTS’ “Swim” passed 1 billion Spotify streams, becoming the first 2026 release to hit the mark and the group’s fastest track to do so. BTS now has seven songs past 1 billion. Spotify: The service is tightening Family and Duo plan address checks with QR verification. Its Q3 report showed 306 million Premium subscribers and a stronger profit outlook; Spotify also says it removed more than 50 million AI-generated and spam tracks from recommendations. In-Car Listening: Audi drivers can now use Spotify’s native app without connecting a phone. Music Discovery: Deezer added an option to exclude AI-generated tracks, as debate grows over how streaming services should handle AI music. Chart Watch: Fontaines D.C.’s Dopamine Chamber scored a major streaming week, helping the band land its highest-charting single yet. iPod Anniversary: Apple Music marked the iPod’s 25th birthday with a playable virtual version hidden on its website.