How to Play Spotify Without Internet
Spotify is an internet-dependent streaming service, but you can listen without a connection by downloading music for offline playback. This requires a Premium subscription, and the process differs slightly between mobile devices and desktop computers.
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Downloading Music for Offline Playback
To listen offline, you must first download the content while connected to Wi-Fi or mobile data. Open the Spotify app, find the playlist, album, or podcast you want, and toggle the Download switch. A green arrow will appear once the content is saved to your device. You can manage these downloads in the Library section under Downloads.
Downloading on Mobile
On iOS and Android, go to the playlist or album you want offline. Tap the Download icon to save it. Ensure the Download Using Cellular toggle is on in Settings if you are not on Wi-Fi. Downloaded content is stored locally and plays without a signal. You must go online at least once every 30 days to keep your downloads active and verify your Premium status.
Downloading on Desktop
On Windows or Mac, click the Download toggle next to a playlist or album in the desktop app. The app downloads the files in the background. You can find downloaded items in your Library under the Downloads section. These remain playable when you disconnect from the internet.
Limitations and Requirements
Offline playback is restricted to Premium subscribers. Free users cannot download music for offline listening and must be connected to stream. Downloads are tied to the device and the specific account; you cannot transfer them to another device or share them outside the app.
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Subscription | Spotify Premium required |
| Device | Mobile app or desktop app |
| Re-verification | Connect online at least once every 30 days |
| Download Limit | Up to 10,000 songs per device on up to 5 devices |
Troubleshooting Offline Playback
If downloaded music does not play offline, check that you are logged into Premium. Confirm the Download toggle is active for the specific content. On mobile, ensure you have granted Spotify file storage permissions. If downloads are stuck, try toggling the Download setting off and on again, or clear the app cache in your device settings.