Why Spotify Stopped Working on Older Devices
Spotify updated their iOS app in 2025 to require iOS 16 minimum. Like YouTube, this was a gradual process — existing installs may have worked for a while before stopping, and fresh installs on iOS 15 are no longer possible.
The affected devices are the same ones locked out of YouTube: iPhone 6s, iPhone SE (1st gen), iPhone 7, iPad mini 4, iPad Air 2, and the first-generation iPad Pros. All are capped at iOS 15.
The Web Workaround
Spotify's web player at open.spotify.com works in Safari on iOS 15. You can browse your library, play playlists, and listen to podcasts through the browser.
Limitations: you cannot download music for offline listening, and the web player requires an internet connection. Premium subscribers will find the web player somewhat more limited than the native app. But for casual listening, it works.
Add it to your home screen (Safari → Share → Add to Home Screen) for a cleaner experience without the address bar showing.
Best Spotify Alternatives on iOS 15
If you're ready to switch away from Spotify, these alternatives work natively on iOS 15:
- Apple Music (built-in, iOS 15+) — Full streaming catalogue, £10.99/month. The most seamless replacement on iOS 15. Integrates with Siri and the music widget. Downloads for offline use work perfectly.
- Amazon Music (iOS 15+) — Included with Amazon Prime. Prime members get a shuffle-play tier, Unlimited subscribers get full on-demand access. Works well on iOS 15.
- Deezer (iOS 14+) — Full streaming service with a free ad-supported tier and premium. iOS 14 minimum means it works on all iOS 15 devices. Good catalogue, decent app.
- YouTube Music — Requires iOS 16+. Not an option.
- Tidal — Requires iOS 16+. Not an option.
🎵 Apple Music is the strongest Spotify replacement on iOS 15. It's built into the OS, downloads work offline, Siri integration is seamless, and the catalogue is comparable. If you're paying for Spotify, Apple Music at the same price point (or included with Apple One) is worth considering.
For Podcast Listeners
If you mainly used Spotify for podcasts, the built-in Apple Podcasts app on iOS 15 covers every major podcast in its directory, including all content that was previously on Spotify. It's free and works perfectly on iOS 15 devices.
Should You Upgrade?
The combination of YouTube and Spotify both requiring iOS 16 makes a strong case for upgrading if music streaming matters to you. A refurbished iPhone SE 2nd gen or iPhone 8 runs iOS 26 and reinstates both apps immediately. Both are available from around £80–120 on Amazon Renewed.
Our verdict
Spotify's iOS 16 requirement is frustrating but the web player at open.spotify.com in Safari is a workable stopgap. For a proper replacement, Apple Music (built-in) and Amazon Music (iOS 15+) are the strongest native alternatives. If streaming music is essential to your daily routine, this is a good reason to consider upgrading your device.
Find music apps for your iOS 15 device
Browse all music apps still available on iOS 15 — sorted by rating.
Browse music apps →Also see: YouTube not working on old iPad/iPhone · Best music production apps for older iPads · GarageBand alternatives for iOS 15