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Spotify Rolls Out Free Streaming for iOS Users

 & Stephanie Mlot Contributor

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Spotify today launched its free mobile music service to all iOS users.

Previously, non-paying Spotify users could listen only to Spotify Radio on the mobile apps; now, everyone can discover, save, shuffle, and share new music.

The Swedish streaming service announced its expansion in December, promising subscription-free streaming features on the iPhone and iPad, though functionality differs between devices. Now it's rolling out to all iOS users.

Apple smartphone users can freely stream any available artist's entire catalog, as well as favorite user-created and Spotify-curated playlists, though remember that playback will be restricted to shuffle mode only.

The iPad app, however, runs fast and loose: non-paying listeners can stream any song, any time. You will, of course, encounter the occasional pesky audio advertisement—just like on a desktop.

Spotify opted to extend PC features to the tablet because "unlike mobile devices, it turns out that tablets are becoming the new desktops," the company said during last month's announcement. "Tablets are where people lean in, search and build playlists."

For those who would rather rather discover new music, or are looking for inspiration at the gym or during Friday Date Night, visit the updated Browse tab to find themed playlists, produced by Spotify employees for various moods, genres, and moments.

If the service's freemium options aren't enough, Spotify Premium is available for $9.99 per month, offering commercial-free music with high-quality audio, and the ability to download and listen to tunes offline.

All users, however, can now get the Led out, thanks to a new partnership between the music-streaming company and legendary rock band Led Zeppelin. The group's Swan Song/Atlantic catalog is now available exclusively on Spotify.

Zeppelin's tunes, along with all of Spotify's new features, are now available in a total of 55 international markets, for Android and iOS users.

For more, see PCMag's review of Spotify and the slideshow above. Also check out Get Organized: How to Organize Your Spotify Playlists.

About Our Expert

Stephanie Mlot

Stephanie Mlot

Contributor

My Experience

  • B.A. in Journalism & Public Relations with minor in Communications Media from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP)
  • Reporter at The Frederick News-Post (2008-2012)
  • Reporter for PCMag and Geek.com (RIP) (2012-present)

My Areas of Expertise

  • Science & Space
  • Video Streaming Services
  • Social Media
  • Cars & Auto
  • Education

The Tech I Use

  • iPhone 12 Pro
  • MacBook Air (hooked up to a 23-inch Dell monitor)
  • Google Chrome
  • Google Drive
  • Soundcore Life P3 earbuds
  • Various Amazon Echo devices

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