At long last, Apple Watch users can finally download Spotify — with some caveats, however. The streaming service began testing the app earlier this month, so suffice it to say that the resulting implementation is a bit barebones.
Spotify On Apple Watch Has Complications
For one, the app doesn't allow users to download tracks for offline playback yet, a cornerstone feature of Spotify on other platforms, and arguably the single most crucial functionality users pay the monthly subscription for.
Much like the version teased in early November, the official Spotify app for Apple Watch offers only basic features, such as controlling playback on music being played iPhones or other Spotify Connect devices. Unfortunately, there is currently no way to stream songs directly to the Apple Watch via a phone or LTE, which is definitely a huge bummer for those who'd been expecting their Apple Watch to be their primary music player once Spotify arrives.
Spotify Offline Playback On Apple Watch
The lack of offline playback will surely disappoint a lot of people, especially considering a host of third-party Spotify Apple Watch apps already offer this feature. Apple's smartwatch isn't billed as a replacement for someone's smartphone, to be clear — but the point of having one is to potentially limit one's dependence on their daily handset.
As such, having offline playback is crucial — it'll allow users to carry only their watch if they want to listen to their favorite tunes while running or working out, as lugging a phone during these activities would simply be unintuitive. Plus, it would make it much easier to focus on the tasks at hand as having a smartphone might lead to some unnecessary distractions.
Spotify, at least, promises that offline playback is coming in the future, although it failed to specify a date. In any case, the app is now available as a free download from the App Store. Hopefully, the features will come sooner rather than later, as this would greatly expand the capabilities of Apple's smartwatch, and even its appeal, too. Not that it needs it, though — Apple seems to be having great success with the device nonetheless.
What are your thoughts about Spotify finally arriving on Apple Watch? Do you think not offering offline playback from the get-go is a mistake? Does the app make you want to purchase an Apple Watch more? As always, if you have anything to share, feel free to sound them off in the comments section below!
