While complete freedom to set default apps on iOS is still a few years away, Apple seems more inclined than ever to move in that direction. If the ability to change the default browser and mail app in iOS 14 is a sign of something big, then definitely Apple is moving in the right direction, aside from the blue option to set Spotify as the default music app on iPhone and iPad in iOS 14.5 or later. More than 300 million active users of the leading music streaming app will be delighted. Whether you’re a devoted Spotify user or just want to change the default music app on your iPhone and iPad, let me help you get started.
Note: While we focus on Spotify for this article, the same steps can be used to set any music app as the default music player on iPhone, including YouTube Music, Pandora, Tidal, and more.
Change Default Music App on iPhone and iPad Running iOS 14.5 or Higher
Keep a few important things in mind before trying the quick steps.
Only Works When Using Siri
In typical Apple fashion, the tech giant has kept the option to change the default music app in iOS 14.5 a bit secret. Interestingly, there is no toggle in the Settings app to set a music app as the preferred option. So how does it work?
Well, it’s only when you call Siri and ask it to play a song where the ability to switch music app pops up. When you let the virtual assistant stream music through your favorite music app, it will automatically select that particular app to play music from then on.
Do You Still Need to Add “Spotify” to the Command?
It is worth noting that you can already play Spotify music using Siri, you had to add “Spotify” to your command. For example, you had to say something like, “Hey Siri, play my workout list on Spotify.” “Hey Siri, play Justin Bieber songs on Spotify.” It didn’t always seem appropriate, to say the least.
However, with the introduction of this brand new feature, you no longer need to mention Spotify or the name of any music app at the end of the command. This is a nice change.
Make Spotify Default to iPad/iPhone with iOS 14.5 or Later
- To get started, call Siri On your iPhone by pressing the side/home/power button of your iPhone or iPad or using the “Hey Siri” command.
2. Now, ask personal assistant To play a song, album, or artist
3. If you use more than one music app, Siri will offer you: list of all music apps and we ask you to choose your preferred application.
4. Next, Siri will ask for your permission to access your data. “For this I will need to access your Spotify data. Okay?” Tap on Yes to continue.
This much! Siri will start playing the song. From now on, it will always stream music using your preferred music app.
Set Default Music App on iPhone and iPad
This is how you can set Spotify as your default music app on iOS and iPadOS. As always with the beta version, this feature does not always work as expected. But once Apple officially releases iOS 14.5, hopefully it becomes stable. Also, I would like Apple to add a separate toggle/option on the same line as the browser/mail app for better control.
Specifically, iOS 14.5 also lets you unlock your iPhone using the Apple Watch. If you haven’t tried it yet, head over to our quick guide. Anyway, how do you rate this brand new feature? Be sure to share your feedback in the comments below.
