Chromebooks are lightweight and efficient laptops, but they have certain limitations that can make things difficult for some users. One of those limitations is the inability to run certain apps and software, such as Spotify’s desktop app. This can be problematic for music lovers who prefer the desktop version of Spotify over its web player. However, there are ways to get around this limitation and successfully install and use desktop Spotify on your Chromebook. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some methods to accomplish this, along with some tips and tricks to get the most out of your Spotify experience on your Chromebook.
Video Tutorial:
Why You Need to Get Desktop Spotify on Chromebook
Chromebooks are known for their simplicity and efficiency; they are designed to be used with web-based apps. While this works for most users, it can be frustrating for users who prefer to use certain desktop apps, such as Spotify’s desktop app. Desktop Spotify is often preferred by users because of its enhanced features, including higher quality audio, more playlist options, and easier offline listening. By installing desktop Spotify on your Chromebook, you can enjoy those features and take full advantage of all that Spotify has to offer.
Method 1: Via the Google Play Store
Method 1 is the easiest and most straightforward way to download and install desktop Spotify on your Chromebook as it doesn’t require any additional software or tools.
Step 1: Open the Google Play Store on your Chromebook.
Step 2: In the search bar, type "Spotify" and select the Spotify app from the search results.
Step 3: Click on the "Install" button to begin the installation process.
Step 4: Once the installation is complete, open the Spotify desktop app and login with your Spotify account. Now, you can enjoy desktop Spotify on your Chromebook.
Pros:
– The process is easy, quick, and straightforward.
– You don’t need to download any additional software to get desktop Spotify on your Chromebook.
– You can download and install the Spotify app like any other app from the Google Play Store.
Cons:
– Not all Chromebooks support the Google Play Store.
– The Google Play Store version of Spotify is slightly different from the desktop version.
Method 2: Via the CrossOver App
Method 2 involves using a cross-platform app called CrossOver to install and run desktop Spotify on your Chromebook.
Step 1: Download and install the CrossOver app from the Google Play Store.
Step 2: Launch the CrossOver app and select "Install a Windows Application."
Step 3: In the search bar, type "Spotify" and select "Spotify for Windows" from the search results.
Step 4: Follow the installation wizard and select "Finish" when Spotify installation is completed.
Step 5: Launch Spotify desktop app from your Chromebook and login with your Spotify account. Now, you can enjoy desktop Spotify on your Chromebook.
Pros:
– CrossOver allows you to run Windows applications on a Chromebook.
– You can install desktop Spotify on your Chromebook without dual booting or partitioning your hard drive.
– You can customize your installation for better performance
Cons:
– CrossOver requires a paid subscription or a one-time purchase.
– CrossOver doesn’t support all Windows applications.
Method 3: Via Crouton
Method 3 requires you to use Crouton, which is a toolset that enables you to install Linux on your Chromebook.
Step 1: Enable developer mode on your Chromebook.
Step 2: Install Crouton on your Chromebook by entering "sudo sh -e ~/Downloads/crouton -t audio,xiwi,extension"
Step 3: Once Crouton installation is completed, enter "sudo startxfce4" to start Linux.
Step 4: Install and run desktop Spotify on the Linux desktop.
Step 5: Once installed, log in with your Spotify account and enjoy desktop Spotify on your Chromebook.
Pros:
– You can run Linux apps alongside Chrome OS applications on your Chromebook with a simple keystroke.
– You can customize or install various apps and tools that are not compatible with Chrome OS.
– Linux provides better app compatibility than Chrome OS.
Cons:
– Entering developer mode on your Chromebook can void your warranty.
– Crouton requires some technical knowledge and can be complex to use for non-Linux users.
What to Do If You Can’t Get Desktop Spotify on Chromebook
If you can’t install desktop Spotify on your Chromebook using the above methods, there are still a few things you can do. Here are a few fixes to consider:
– Use the Spotify web player instead of the desktop app.
– Use the Android version of Spotify on your Chromebook if it’s available in your country or region.
– Consider buying a different device that supports desktop Spotify if it’s crucial to your music-listening experience.
Bonus Tip
If you want to improve your Spotify experience on your Chromebook, consider using an external speaker or headphone for better sound quality. Chromebooks’ built-in speakers might not provide the best sound, especially if you’re a real music lover. An external speaker or headphone can make a big difference in the sound quality.
5 FAQs
Q1: Can I use offline mode on Spotify desktop app on my Chromebook?
A: Yes, you can use the offline mode on the Spotify desktop app on your Chromebook, but you will need a premium Spotify account for that feature.
Q2: Why does the Google Play Store version of Spotify have fewer features than the desktop version?
A: The Google Play Store version of Spotify is an Android app that is designed for mobile devices. The desktop version of Spotify is optimized for larger screens and more powerful hardware, making it more feature-rich.
Q3: Can I use Crouton on any Chromebook?
A: Crouton should work with most Chromebooks, but some devices might require additional steps to use it.
Q4: Does using CrossOver to install desktop Spotify on my Chromebook void my warranty?
A: Using CrossOver should not void your warranty as it doesn’t involve any hardware or firmware modifications to your Chromebook.
Q5: Can I use desktop Spotify on my Chromebook without an internet connection?
A: You can use desktop Spotify on your Chromebook without an internet connection if you have downloaded your music or have switched on the offline mode, which requires a premium Spotify account.
Final Thoughts
While Chromebooks have their limitations, they are still efficient and reliable laptops that can handle most tasks. By using one of the methods mentioned above, you can get desktop Spotify on your Chromebook and enjoy all the features it offers. If you’re having trouble installing desktop Spotify, consider using the web player or Android version instead. Remember to also use an external speaker or headphone for better sound quality.