Spotify Cannot Play – How to Fix It

If Spotify is not playing music, it could be due to connectivity issues, account restrictions, or app-related problems. This guide provides step-by-step solutions to fix the issue and restore Spotify playback.

Check Internet Connection

Ensure You Are Online

  • Open a browser and visit a website to confirm your internet is working.
  • If using Wi-Fi, switch to mobile data and check if Spotify plays.
  • Restart your router or modem if the internet is slow or unstable.

Disable Offline Mode

  1. Open Spotify.
  2. Go to Settings (gear icon).
  3. Scroll down and disable Offline Mode.

Restart Spotify and Device

Close and Reopen the App

  1. Close Spotify completely.
  2. Reopen the app and try playing music again.

Restart Your Device

  1. Restart your phone, tablet, or computer.
  2. Open Spotify and test playback.

Check for Spotify Server Issues

Verify Spotify Status

  • Visit Downdetector or Spotify Status Twitter to check if Spotify is down.
  • If servers are down, wait for Spotify to resolve the issue.

Clear Cache and Storage

Clear Spotify Cache (Mobile)

  1. Open Spotify > Settings.
  2. Tap Storage > Clear Cache.
  3. Restart the app.

Clear Spotify Cache (Desktop)

  1. Open Spotify > Settings.
  2. Scroll to Storage and click Clear cache.
  3. Restart Spotify.

Check Account and Subscription

Ensure You Are Logged In

  • If logged out, sign back into your Spotify account.
  • Ensure you are using the correct Premium or Free account.

Check for Multiple Device Playback

  • If Spotify is playing on another device, switch back:
    1. Tap the Devices icon in the Now Playing bar.
    2. Select your preferred device.

Update Spotify

Update on Mobile

  1. Open Google Play Store or App Store.
  2. Search for Spotify and tap Update if available.

Update on Desktop

  1. Open Spotify.
  2. Click Profile > Check for Updates.

Disable Hardware Acceleration (Desktop)

  1. Open Spotify on your computer.
  2. Click Profile > Settings.
  3. Scroll down to Advanced Settings.
  4. Turn off Enable Hardware Acceleration.
  5. Restart Spotify.

Reinstall Spotify

Reinstall on Mobile

  1. Delete Spotify from your phone.
  2. Restart your phone.
  3. Reinstall Spotify from the App Store or Google Play Store.

Reinstall on Desktop

  1. Uninstall Spotify.
  2. Download and install the latest version from Spotify’s official website.

If Spotify still cannot play, contact Spotify Support for further assistance.