I went from 12 to 15 pro max, the difference is significant. I can listen to Spotify while shooting from the camera. On my old iPhone 12, this is not possible.

I think that says more about Spotify than your phone.

Test Spotify against YouTube Music (and others) - I personally see no reason for Spotify when I have YouTube Premium, which performs with less overhead.

Maybe they have friends and family on Spotify

I’m sure you’re right but that’s pretty unreal.