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Spotify users, rejoice: iOS 14.5, currently in beta, introduces the ability to change the streaming service Siri plays music and podcasts from. The iOS update addresses other issues, such as using Face ID while wearing a skin (though you’ll need an Apple Watch for that), but it’s the ability to make Spotify our default music service that we’re really excited about given that we spend so much more time on home listening to music these days than in the world trying to unlock our iPhone with our faces covered with masks.
According to Reddit users, the first time users ask Siri to play a song or podcast on iOS 14.5, the “smart” assistant will ask which service to play from, as long as third-party players are installed. If users specify that they would like to play from Spotify, it will automatically become the default for all future music requests. Until now, you would have to specify that you would like to play one “Spotify” song at a time.
A little too eager – Some people have reported that Siri has defaulted their music player on Spotify without even requesting it. Others have said that Siri first asks permission to access your Spotify data before making the default change.
The change will certainly be welcomed by the legions of people who refuse to give in to Apple’s wishes and use their own Apple Music service. Spotify CEO Daniel Ek has long complained that Apple’s services have an unfair advantage over the competition because, among other reasons, they are pre-installed on all new iOS devices and are allowed deeper integration to operating system level. He has said that he expected Apple to open up its operating system more in response to mounting antitrust concerns, which is in line with what we are seeing now. Apple has also started allowing users to change other default apps, including those for email and web browsing.
Apple last revealed its music streaming subscriber numbers in June 2019 when it said that Apple Music had reached 60 million subscribers since its launch in 2015. Spotify currently has more than 155 million subscribers.
Change of strategies – Although Spotify will get better support on iOS, it faces a new challenge in Apple’s recently released Apple One bundle, which combines numerous Apple subscription products, including Apple Music, into one monthly fee. But Spotify has been turning its attention to podcasting as of late, where it has been building a list of exclusive shows including Joe Rogan’s experience Y Answer everyone. The hope is that more money can be made from podcast ads, and that exclusive content will help set Spotify apart from other music streaming apps that feature largely the same catalogs.
