Spotify has revolutionized the way we listen to music, podcasts, and audio content on the go. However, for iPhone users, it can be frustrating when Spotify stops playing as soon as you switch to another app or lock your screen. If you’ve been asking yourself how to keep Spotify playing in the background on your iPhone, you’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide will help you enjoy seamless Spotify playback while multitasking or when your device is idle.
Understanding Background Playback on iPhones
Apple’s iOS system is designed with specific restrictions to manage battery usage and optimize performance. Background playback is a feature that allows apps like Spotify to continue functioning even when you are not actively using the app. However, this feature sometimes requires proper configuration or troubleshooting to work seamlessly.
Spotify is designed to support background playback, but occasional glitches, iOS settings, or app permissions may interrupt this functionality. Understanding the underlying causes can help ensure uninterrupted playback.how to keep Spotify playing in the background iPhone, Spotify background playback iPhone, iPhone Spotify background
Check Your iPhone’s Background App Refresh Settings
One common reason Spotify stops playing in the background is misconfigured background app refresh settings. Background App Refresh allows apps to update their content when running in the background. Here’s how to ensure this feature is enabled for Spotify:
- Go to Settings on your iPhone.
Navigate to the main settings menu and scroll down to the option labeled “General.” - Select Background App Refresh.
Under the General settings, tap on “Background App Refresh.” - Enable Background App Refresh for Spotify.
Locate Spotify in the list of apps and ensure the toggle switch is turned on. - Restart Spotify After Adjustments.
Close and reopen Spotify to apply the changes effectively.
These simple adjustments ensure that Spotify has permission to function in the background without interruptions.
Optimize Your iPhone Battery Settings for Spotify
Apple has implemented battery optimization features to conserve power, but these features can sometimes interfere with apps running in the background. Here’s how to configure battery settings for uninterrupted Spotify playback:
- Disable Low Power Mode:
- Go to your iPhone’s Settings.
- Navigate to Battery and turn off Low Power Mode. This mode limits background activity, which can disrupt Spotify.
- Enable Spotify Notifications:
Notifications can help maintain app connectivity. Ensure Spotify’s notifications are enabled by going to:- Settings > Notifications > Spotify.
- Check Battery Health:
In rare cases, an aging battery may cause apps to close prematurely. Visit Settings > Battery > Battery Health to ensure your battery is performing optimally.
By managing battery settings, you’ll give Spotify the background access it needs to keep playing seamlessly.
Use the Spotify Connect Feature
Spotify Connect is a built-in feature that allows you to play music on one device while controlling it from another. This option is especially useful for keeping music playing when multitasking on an iPhone. Here’s how to use it:
- Connect Your Devices:
Open Spotify on your iPhone and ensure it’s logged in to the same account as another compatible device, such as a speaker or another phone. - Play Music via Spotify Connect:
Select a device from the “Available Devices” menu in Spotify, and the app will keep playing music even if you exit it on your iPhone. - Control Playback Remotely:
You can control playback from your iPhone while using other apps without interruptions.
Spotify Connect bypasses many iPhone restrictions and is a reliable workaround for background playback issues.
Check Spotify’s Permissions on Your iPhone
iOS permissions play a crucial role in app functionality. If Spotify doesn’t have the required permissions, it might not work correctly in the background. Follow these steps to check permissions:
- Go to Settings and Find Spotify:
Scroll through your list of apps to locate Spotify. - Enable All Permissions:
Allow Spotify access to your location, notifications, and background activity. - Adjust Audio Focus:
Some iOS features prioritize phone calls or system sounds over app audio. Ensure you’ve disabled any conflicting features in:
Settings > Sounds & Haptics > Reduce Loud Sounds.
This step ensures that Spotify functions smoothly alongside other apps.
Update Spotify and iOS for Maximum Compatibility
Outdated software can cause compatibility issues that disrupt background playback. Always ensure both Spotify and your iPhone’s iOS are updated to the latest versions.
- Update Spotify:
- Open the App Store.
- Go to the Updates tab and look for Spotify. If an update is available, tap Update.
- Update iOS:
- Visit Settings > General > Software Update and install the latest version.
- Restart Your iPhone:
After updates, restart your device to ensure the changes are applied properly.
Keeping your apps and system updated minimizes potential glitches.
Troubleshoot Common Background Playback Issues
Even with everything configured correctly, you might still face occasional interruptions. Here’s how to troubleshoot and resolve these issues:
- Force Close Spotify:
- Swipe up from the bottom of the screen (or double-click the home button on older devices).
- Locate Spotify in the app switcher and swipe it away to force close. Reopen the app afterward.
- Reinstall Spotify:
If issues persist, delete Spotify from your iPhone and reinstall it from the App Store. - Check Network Stability:
Spotify relies on a stable internet connection. Switch between Wi-Fi and cellular data if needed.
Troubleshooting ensures any lingering playback problems are resolved effectively.
Prevent Spotify from Being Force Closed by iOS
iOS has a built-in feature that force-closes apps to free up resources when your device’s memory is running low. Prevent this by managing your iPhone’s storage and performance:
- Close Unnecessary Apps:
Limit the number of apps running simultaneously to free up RAM for Spotify. - Clear Cache:
Open Spotify, go to Settings > Storage, and clear the cache to reduce app size. - Free Up Device Storage:
Visit Settings > General > iPhone Storage and delete unused apps or large files.
These steps ensure Spotify has the resources it needs to run continuously.
Enjoy Seamless Background Playback with Premium
While the free version of Spotify supports background playback, upgrading to Spotify Premium offers a more seamless experience:
- Ad-Free Listening:
Premium eliminates ads that might interrupt your playback. - Offline Playback:
Download your favorite playlists to listen offline, even if background playback is temporarily interrupted. - Enhanced Audio Quality:
Premium subscribers enjoy higher-quality audio, which enhances the overall listening experience.
Investing in Spotify Premium not only supports background playback but also enriches your overall music experience.
Final Thoughts: Mastering Spotify Background Playback on iPhone
Keeping Spotify playing in the background on an iPhone requires the right settings, permissions, and optimizations. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to enjoy your favorite music without interruptions, whether you’re multitasking, locking your screen, or using other apps.
By maintaining your device, updating software, and configuring settings, you can create a flawless listening experience that complements your lifestyle.
Get ready to rediscover the joy of uninterrupted music with Spotify on your iPhone!
