Spotify Could Allow Apple Watch Direct Streaming In Future Update

Spotify is testing a new feature that allows Apple Watch users to stream music directly from the device. The new feature hasn't been rolled out yet, but the testing does indicate that it might come in a future update.

Several Spotify users reported to German-speaking site iPhone-Ticker.de (via Google Translate) that the music streaming app is now testing allowing Apple Watch users to directly stream music – without requiring them to have their iPhones nearby. This was recently reported by some Reddit users as well.

This is a major addition to the app, considering how it has been used in previous versions. Unlike other music streaming apps such as Apple Music and Pandora, the Spotify app on Apple Watch merely served as a remote control for playback on the iPhone.

This meant Spotify users who wanted to listen to their favorite playlists and artists had to bring their iPhones with them to keep enjoying their music. The wearable's app was simply meant to help them play, pause and skip tracks easily from the wrist.

The music streaming app's developer previously updated the app to add some helpful features, such as support for Siri, but didn't allow the app to stream music and playlists directly. The current test indicates that the developers are looking to add the feature and finally turn the app into a standalone music streaming service, not just a remote control.

Random selection

According to the report, Spotify appears to have chosen participants randomly, and those who have been chosen to participate in the feature testing will see a “blue beta badge” on the screen.

One user named Max said the feature suddenly appeared on his Apple Watch Series 3 LTE, indicating that the feature won't be specific to newer Watch models only.

In order to test if the new feature will indeed allow for direct streaming, Max said he turned his iPhone off and checked how the device will respond. He said the iPhone symbol that normally appeared on the display was replaced by an Apple Watch icon. This indicates that playback is done locally on the wearable itself.

While the testing indicates the possibility of a nearing release, Spotify hasn't given any clue as to when the feature will be launched to more users. Fans are advised to stay tuned for more details as they come.