Updating Spotify on Windows 10 might seem like a no-brainer, but sometimes the process isn’t as straightforward as clicking “Update” in the app. You might run into a situation where Spotify refuses to update automatically, or the option isn’t clearly visible. Maybe the app is acting weird, or you want to make sure you’re on the latest version so you don’t miss new features or security fixes. Doing it manually is pretty easy once you know where to look, and it can save a lot of frustration, especially if your Spotify is acting glitchy or crashing often.
Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need to do, with some extra tips to get it done properly. Because Windows and Spotify aren’t always perfectly synced on update prompts, sometimes you gotta do a little digging, but don’t worry — it’s usually just a few clicks away.
How to Update Spotify on Windows 10 (or just make sure you have the latest)
Basically, keeping Spotify up to date means you get all the latest goodies and bug patches. Sometimes, the app doesn’t prompt you for updates unless you go looking, and that’s fine. Just follow these steps. On one setup it worked the first time, on another, I had to restart the app twice before the update showed up, so don’t get discouraged if it’s not smooth the first try.
Open Spotify and click on the menu
- Start by launching Spotify — the icon on your desktop or in the Start menu.
- Now, click on the three dots in the top-left corner, that’s your menu. This is usually where all the hidden options are hiding.
Access the “Help” menu and verify your version
- Click on Help, then select About Spotify. This opens a screen that shows what version you’re on.
- If you see a button or link that says “Check for updates, ” that’s your cue to click it. If not, don’t worry — Spotify sometimes automatically checks for updates here.
Force a manual update if needed
- If Spotify won’t prompt you directly, you can get the latest version by downloading the installer from the official Spotify website — here’s the direct link.
- Run the installer. Usually, it detects your current version and either updates or re-installs without messing with your playlists or login info. Just make sure you’re logged in.
Restart Spotify to complete the update
- Once installation is done, restart the app. Some updates might require a full restart of Spotify and even your computer if things seem wonky after.
- If the version number in “About Spotify” changed, you’re all set. If not, just repeat the process — sometimes a second run is what gets it done.
In my experience, sometimes Spotify gets stuck and needs a `kill` command via Task Manager or a reboot. Because of course, Windows has to make it harder than necessary.
Tips for ensuring Spotify stays updated
- Enable auto-updates if that option appears in settings — saves the hassle.
- Keep Windows updated too; sometimes a system update helps Spotify behave better.
- Check the official Spotify forums or support if you’re hitting weird errors. Sometimes, your account or device-specific issues block updates.
- Reboot your PC every now and then, especially if updates seem stuck or not applying.
Troubleshooting common update issues
What if Spotify doesn’t check for updates anymore?
Try going directly to their website and grabbing the latest installer instead. Also, make sure your Windows and drivers are current, since outdated software can block updates.
Why does Spotify keep crashing after an update?
It might be related to incompatible plugins or corrupted cache. Clearing the cache in `%AppData%\Spotify` or a reinstall can fix that.
How do I know if Spotify really updated?
Check the version number under Help > About Spotify. Compare that with the latest version listed on the Spotify version history page.
Summary
- Open Spotify and head over to the menu.
- Check for updates or just grab the installer from the website.
- Reinstall if necessary, then restart Spotify.
- Ensure Windows is up to date and restart periodically.
Wrap-up
Getting Spotify up to speed isn’t exactly rocket science, but it can be a little fiddly sometimes. The main thing is just making sure you’re running the latest version — especially if you’re noticing bugs or missing features. Reinstalling from the official site is often the easiest way to force an update if all else fails. And don’t forget, keeping Windows itself updated can help things run smoothly. It’s kinda funny how these little things turn into big headaches sometimes, but once you get used to checking for updates manually, it’s pretty quick.
Hopefully, this saves someone a few hours chasing ghost update issues. Good luck, and happy listening!