Are you tired of your Spotify music stopping every time you turn off your iPhone screen? Many users have encountered this frustrating issue, and it can put a damper on your listening experience. In this article, we will delve into the reasons behind why Spotify stops playing when the screen is off on iPhone and provide you with some possible solutions to overcome this problem.
Background App Refresh
One of the main culprits behind Spotify stopping when the screen is off on iPhone is the Background App Refresh feature. This feature allows apps to update in the background, ensuring that they are always up to date and ready for use. However, when this feature is turned off for Spotify, it prevents the app from updating in the background, resulting in interruptions in music playback.
To check if Background App Refresh is enabled for Spotify, go to your iPhone’s settings and tap on “General.” Then, tap on “Background App Refresh” and make sure the toggle next to Spotify is turned on. If it is already enabled, try toggling it off and on again to refresh the settings. This may resolve any temporary issues that were preventing Spotify from playing when the screen is off.
If the issue persists, you can also try force-closing the Spotify app and reopening it. This can help refresh the app’s background processes and potentially resolve any conflicts that were causing the interruptions. To force-close the app on an iPhone with a home button, double-press the home button and swipe up on the Spotify app preview. On newer iPhone models without a home button, swipe up from the bottom of the screen and hold until the app switcher appears. Then, swipe left or right to find the Spotify app preview and swipe it up to close it.
Adjusting Background App Refresh Settings
If simply enabling or force-closing the Background App Refresh feature did not resolve the issue, you may need to adjust the settings specifically for Spotify. To do this, go to your iPhone’s settings, tap on “General,” and then select “Background App Refresh.” Scroll down to find Spotify in the list of apps and make sure the toggle next to it is turned on. Enabling this setting allows Spotify to update in the background, ensuring uninterrupted music playback even when the screen is off.
Limitations of Battery Saving Mode
iPhones have a Battery Saving Mode option that conserves battery life by limiting certain functions. Unfortunately, this mode can interfere with Spotify’s ability to play music in the background. When Battery Saving Mode is enabled, it restricts background app refresh and other background activities to extend battery life. As a result, Spotify may pause when the screen is off to conserve power.
To check if Battery Saving Mode is enabled on your iPhone, go to the settings and tap on “Battery.” If the toggle next to “Low Power Mode” is turned on, it means that Battery Saving Mode is active. To prevent Spotify from stopping when the screen is off, you can either disable Battery Saving Mode entirely or adjust its settings to allow background app refresh for Spotify.
To disable Battery Saving Mode on your iPhone, simply tap on the toggle switch next to “Low Power Mode” in the Battery settings to turn it off. This will restore normal functionality to your device and prevent any restrictions that were causing Spotify to pause when the screen is off.
If you prefer to keep Battery Saving Mode enabled to conserve battery life, you can still adjust its settings to allow Spotify to continue playing in the background. To do this, go to the settings and tap on “Battery.” Then, tap on “Low Power Mode” to access its settings. You will see a list of apps under “Low Power Mode Apps.” Make sure the toggle next to Spotify is turned on, allowing it to continue running in the background even when Battery Saving Mode is active.
Network Restrictions
In some cases, network restrictions or limitations may cause Spotify to stop playing when the screen is off. These restrictions can be imposed by your mobile carrier or your Wi-Fi network settings. If your network restricts background data usage or has aggressive power-saving settings, it can interfere with Spotify’s ability to stream music continuously in the background.
Checking Mobile Data Restrictions
If you primarily use mobile data to stream music on Spotify, check if your mobile carrier has any restrictions on background data usage. Some mobile plans or network providers may limit the amount of data that can be used by apps running in the background, including Spotify.
To check if your mobile carrier has such restrictions, contact your network provider or check their website for information on data usage policies. If you find that there are limitations on background data usage, you may need to upgrade your plan or adjust your settings to allow Spotify to use data in the background.
To adjust your iPhone’s settings for mobile data usage, go to the settings and tap on “Cellular.” Scroll down and locate Spotify in the list of apps. Make sure the toggle next to Spotify is turned on to allow it to use cellular data. Enabling this setting ensures that Spotify can continue playing when the screen is off, even when you are not connected to Wi-Fi.
Managing Wi-Fi Power-Saving Settings
If you primarily use Wi-Fi to stream music on Spotify, your network’s power-saving settings may be causing interruptions in music playback when the screen is off. Some Wi-Fi routers or devices have power-saving features that prioritize energy efficiency over continuous data transmission.
To check if your Wi-Fi network has power-saving settings enabled, access your router’s settings either through a web browser or a dedicated mobile app. Look for options related to power-saving or energy efficiency and disable them if they are enabled. By allowing your Wi-Fi network to operate at full capacity, you can ensure uninterrupted Spotify playback even when the screen is off.
App Settings
Spotify’s own app settings can also contribute to the issue of music playback interruptions when the screen is off. These settings may inadvertently restrict background app refresh or prioritize power-saving measures, causing the app to pause playback when not actively in use.
Optimizing Spotify App Settings
To optimize Spotify’s app settings for background playback, open the Spotify app on your iPhone and tap on the gear icon to access the settings menu. Scroll down and look for the “Playback” section. Here, you will find various settings that can affect how Spotify behaves when the screen is off.
First, check if the “Offline” mode is enabled. Offline mode allows you to listen to downloaded music without an internet connection and can prevent interruptions when the screen is off. However, if you want to stream music from Spotify’s vast library, make sure offline mode is disabled.
Next, check the “Crossfade” setting. Crossfade allows songs to transition smoothly into each other by overlapping their endings and beginnings. While this feature enhances the listening experience, it may also contribute to Spotify stopping when the screen is off. Try disabling the crossfade feature temporarily to see if it resolves the issue.
Another setting to consider is the “Gapless Playback” option. Gapless playback removes any pauses or gaps between consecutive tracks, providing a seamless listening experience. However, enabling this feature may increase the chances of Spotify stopping when the screen is off. Disable gapless playback temporarily to see if it helps resolve the issue.
Lastly, check the “Data Saver” setting. Data Saver reduces the quality of music streaming to conserve data usage, but it may also interfere with background playback. If this setting is enabled, try disabling it to see if it improves Spotify’s behavior when the screen is off.
Software Updates
Software updates can sometimes introduce bugs or changes that affect how apps function on your iPhone, including Spotify. Outdated software can lead to compatibility issues and may be one of the reasons why Spotify stops playing when the screen is off.
Updating Your iPhone and Spotify App
To ensure compatibility and address any potential issues, it is essential to keep your iPhone and Spotify app up to date with the latest software versions. Apple regularly releases iOS updates that include bug fixes and improvements, while Spotify updates its app to enhance performance and compatibility.
To update your iPhone’s software, go to the settings and tap on “General.” Then, select “Software Update” to check for any available updates. If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to download and install it. After updating your iPhone, restart the device to ensure all changes are applied properly.
To update the Spotify app, open the App Store on your iPhone and tap on your profile picture in the top right corner. Scroll down to find the “Available Updates” section and look for Spotify in the list. If an update is available, tap on the “Update” button next to Spotify to download and install the latest version.
By keeping both your iPhone and Spotify app up to date, you can minimize the chances of compatibility issues and improve Spotify’s performance, ensuring uninterrupted music playback when the screen is off.
Device Restrictions
Some iPhone users may have enabled certain device restrictions that inadvertently affect Spotify’s background playback. These restrictions can be set through the device’s settings, limiting the app’s ability to run in the background and causing it to pause when the screen is off.
Checking and Adjusting Device Restrictions
To check if there are any device restrictions affecting Spotify’s background playback, go to your iPhone’s settings and tap on “Screen Time.” If you have enabled Screen Time, you will be prompted to enter your passcode or use Face ID/Touch ID to access the settings. Once inside Screen Time, tap on “Content & Privacy Restrictions.”
Within Content & Privacy Restrictions, scroll down and tap on “iTunes & App Store Purchases.” Here, ensure that the “Installing Apps” option is set to “Allow” and that “Deleting Apps” is also set to “Allow.” These settings ensure that Spotify can run and update in the background without any restrictions imposed by device settings.
Next, go back to the Content & Privacy Restrictions menu and tap on “Background App Activities.” Make sure that the “Spotify” option is toggled on. This allows Spotify to run in the background and continue playing music even when the screen is off.
Additionally, check the “Do Not Disturb” settings on your iPhone. When Do Not Disturb is enabled, it can silence notifications and limit background activities, potentially affecting Spotify’s behavior when the screen is off. To adjust Do Not Disturb settings, go to the settings and tap on “Do Not Disturb.” Ensure that the toggle switch next to “Do Not Disturb” is turned off or that any scheduled active times do not coincide with your typical Spotify listening sessions.
Restrictions and Parental Controls
If you are using an iPhone with restrictions or parental controls enabled, it is worth checking if any of these settings are causing Spotify to pause when the screen is off. Restrictions and parental controls can limit various aspects of the device’s functionality, including background app refresh and app usage.
To access restrictions or parental control settings, go to your iPhone’s settings and tap on “Screen Time.” If prompted, enter your passcode or use Face ID/Touch ID to access the settings. Within Screen Time, tap on “Content & Privacy Restrictions” and ensure that the toggle switch is turned off. This disables any imposed restrictions and allows Spotify to function normally in the background.
If you are using parental controls, consult the parental control settings or app that you are using to manage your child’s device. Adjust the settings to allow Spotify to run in the background and play music uninterrupted when the screen is off.
Alternative Solutions
If the previous suggestions do not resolve the issue, there are alternative solutions that can help you keep Spotify playing when the screen is off. These options may involve using additional apps or implementing workarounds to bypass the limitations imposed by the iPhone’s default settings.
Using Third-Party Apps
Third-party apps can provide alternative methods for playing Spotify in the background when the screen is off. These apps work by intercepting the audio stream from Spotify and allowing it to continue playing even when the official Spotify app is not active.
One popular app for this purpose is “Musify” (formerly known as “SpotiAlarm”). Musify allows you to play Spotify in the background, set sleep timers, and even wake up to your favorite Spotify tracks. By using Musify or similar apps, you can overcome the limitations imposed by the iPhone’s default settings and enjoy uninterrupted music playback on Spotify.
However, it is important to note that using third-party apps may come with certain limitations or risks. Some apps may require a subscription or have compatibility issues with specific iPhone models or iOS versions. Additionally, using third-party apps may violate Spotify’s terms of service, so proceed with caution and ensure you are using reputable and legal apps.
Workarounds and Workarounds
If you prefer not to rely on third-party apps, there are some workarounds and tricks that may help you keep Spotify playing when the screen is off. These methods involve accessing specific features or settings on your iPhone to keep the app active in the background.
One workaround is to use the Control Center to play music from Spotify. Swipe up from the bottom of the screen (or down from the top right corner on newer iPhone models) to access the Control Center. From there, tap on the music player widget and select Spotify as the source. This allows you to control Spotify playback without opening the app directly, allowing music to continue playing even when the screen is off.
Another workaround is to create a playlist or queue up a long list of songs in Spotify before turning off the screen. By creating a long playlist or queue, you ensure that Spotify has a continuous stream of music to play, reducing the chances of it stopping when the screen is off. This method is especially useful if you have a premium subscription and can download the playlist for offline listening.
While these workarounds may not provide a perfect solution, they can help you maintain continuous music playbackeven when the screen is off. Keep in mind that these workarounds may require some extra effort or may not be as seamless as having Spotify play in the background natively, but they can be effective in keeping the music going.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you have tried the previous suggestions and are still experiencing issues with Spotify stopping when the screen is off on your iPhone, it may be time to troubleshoot the problem further. Troubleshooting involves identifying and addressing any underlying issues that may be causing the interruptions in music playback.
Clearing App Cache
Over time, cached data from the Spotify app can accumulate and potentially cause performance issues. Clearing the app cache can help resolve any conflicts or corrupted data that may be contributing to Spotify stopping when the screen is off.
To clear the app cache on your iPhone, go to the settings and tap on “General.” Then, select “iPhone Storage.” Scroll down to find Spotify in the list of apps and tap on it. Here, you will see an option to “Offload App” or “Delete App.” Choose the option that suits your preference. Offloading the app preserves its data but removes the app itself, while deleting the app removes all data associated with it. Afterward, reinstall Spotify from the App Store to start with a clean slate.
Resetting All Settings
In some cases, resetting all settings on your iPhone can help resolve any underlying issues that may be causing Spotify to stop playing when the screen is off. This option resets all your personalized settings to their default values while keeping your data intact.
To reset all settings on your iPhone, go to the settings and tap on “General.” Then, select “Reset” and choose “Reset All Settings.” You may be prompted to enter your passcode or use Face ID/Touch ID to confirm the action. After the reset is complete, reconfigure your iPhone’s settings according to your preferences, and check if Spotify now plays continuously when the screen is off.
Contacting Spotify Support
If you have exhausted all troubleshooting options and the issue still persists, it may be beneficial to reach out to Spotify’s support team. They can provide personalized assistance and troubleshoot the problem from their end, potentially identifying any specific issues related to your account or device.
To contact Spotify support, visit the Spotify website and navigate to the “Support” or “Help” section. There, you will find various resources and contact options, such as live chat, email support, or community forums. Provide them with detailed information about your issue, including the steps you have already taken to troubleshoot, and they will assist you further in resolving the problem.
User Experiences
Understanding how other Spotify users have dealt with the issue of Spotify stopping when the screen is off can provide valuable insights and potential solutions. While the effectiveness of these experiences may vary, hearing from others who have faced similar challenges can shed light on alternative approaches that may work for you.
Online forums, social media groups, and Reddit communities dedicated to Spotify or iPhone troubleshooting can be excellent resources for finding user experiences and learning from their stories. Engage with these communities, ask questions, and share your own experiences to gather a broader perspective on the issue and discover new solutions.
Success Stories and Tips
Within these user communities, you may come across success stories and tips from individuals who have found effective solutions to keep their music playing uninterrupted on their iPhones. These success stories can provide inspiration and guidance, showcasing specific steps or settings that have worked for others.
Additionally, users may share tips and tricks they have discovered along the way. These tips can range from specific app settings to hidden features or even unofficial workarounds that have allowed them to overcome the issue of Spotify stopping when the screen is off. Be open to experimenting with these tips while keeping in mind any potential risks or limitations they may have.
Future Updates and Solutions
As technology continues to evolve, both Spotify and Apple may introduce future updates or solutions to address the issue of Spotify stopping when the screen is off on iPhones. Staying informed about upcoming developments can help you prepare for a more seamless music listening experience on your iPhone.
Monitoring Release Notes
Keep an eye on the release notes for Spotify app updates. These release notes often outline bug fixes, improvements, and new features that are introduced with each update. By reading the release notes, you can see if Spotify has addressed the issue of music stopping when the screen is off and take advantage of any new solutions or optimizations they have implemented.
Similarly, monitor Apple’s iOS release notes to see if there are any specific fixes or improvements related to background app refresh or music playback. Apple regularly releases updates that address various issues and enhance overall system performance, so it is essential to install these updates to ensure compatibility and a better user experience.
Checking for updates regularly and staying informed about any changes or solutions implemented by Spotify and Apple will help you stay ahead of the curve and take advantage of any future improvements in resolving the issue of Spotify stopping when the screen is off on your iPhone.
In conclusion, Spotify stopping when the screen is off on iPhone can be frustrating, but there are several potential causes and solutions to address this issue. By understanding the underlying factors and following the recommendations mentioned in this article, you can enjoy uninterrupted music streaming on Spotify, even when your iPhone screen is turned off. Whether it’s adjusting background app refresh settings, managing battery-saving options, optimizing app settings, or exploring alternative solutions, there are various approaches to overcome this obstacle and enhance your music listening experience on your iPhone.
Remember, troubleshooting and finding the right solution may require some trial and error, as the effectiveness of each method can vary depending on individual settings, device models, and other factors. Stay persistent, stay informed, and with a bit of patience, you’ll be able to keep the music playing on Spotify, even when your iPhone screen is off.