On desktop, these limitations aren't really that bad. The free version does come with some caveats, namely audio ads and the inability to save songs offline or use the Connect feature. One of the main reasons for Spotify's huge popularity is the fact that you can use the app without paying a cent. And while it does work well, a fully native application is always best. It relies on the Chromium Embedded Framework to essentially pack the web player into a desktop app, the core of which is mostly C++. However, you can never shake the feeling that you're using a browser camouflaged as a desktop app, because that's exactly what the macOS app is. It seems to take some inspiration from Big Sur's rounded corner design, and everything just feels more modern. Spotify has recently updated the web player's UI, and I have to say that I really like the new look. New playlists are generated for you all the time based on your listening habits, and Spotify even creates a weekly mixtape of fresh songs that might be to your liking. Once you've finished listening to a playlist, for instance, the service will continue playing similar songs. If you aren't really sure what kind of music you like, you'll figure it out soon enough. Spotify's algorithm for providing song suggestions has been widely praised, and for good reason. And one advantage it has over Apple's service is how easy it is for users to find music they like.

While Apple Music is still in the lead when it comes to the sheer size of its music library, Spotify isn't far behind.

While the macOS app isn't quite as impressive, as it's essentially a wrapper around the web player, the recent visual redesign does give it a more modern look and feel. With a huge music library, possibly the best recommendation algorithm, cross-platform support, and an accessible pricing plan, Spotify has a lot going for it. It now has some pretty fierce competition, but it's safe to say that it is still the top dog, and it's easy to see why.

Spotify takes much of the credit for changing the face of the music landscape and paving the way for streaming services to take over the market.

Spotify app mac download