A Preliminary Note
Before we get started with the tutorial, we should point out a few things. First, you need a Spotify Premium account to add your own files to the app. You can’t do so if you’re using a free account. On top of that, it’s only possible to add a selected number of formats to Spotify: MP3, MP4 and M4P. For MP4, you’ll have to have QuickTime installed on your PC for it to work. You can add local files from both your computer and Android mobile device but not iOS.
Enable Local Files in Spotify for Desktop
Before you start adding your local files in Spotify, you need to enable the feature in the program by following these steps: Now you can start adding your own music to the Spotify desktop client.
How to Add a Music Source to Spotify for Desktop
Now you can add you own local files to the desktop client. Follow these instructions to get started.
How to View Your Local Files in Spotify for Desktop
In order to view the files that you’ve just added, you’ll need to access your Spotify library and proceed from there. We encourage you to create a separate new playlist for your Local Files for easier access on your mobile device.
How to View Your Desktop’s Local Files on Android
Want to listen to your desktop’s local files on your Android device? Just make sure both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi before you proceed with the steps below.
How to Add Local Files in Spotify on Android
If you wish to add your own songs to Spotify from your Android device, follow the steps below: Note that even if you enabled the “Local Files” folder on desktop, it doesn’t mean it will automatically appear in your mobile app. The desktop “Local Files” will only show up in the mobile “Local Files” once you’ve downloaded them (as explained above).
How to View Your Android’s Local Files on Desktop
The reverse is also possible by following the instructions we’ve outlined above. Basically, you need to create a new Playlist on Android using the local files you wish to use on your desktop, then revert to your PC, open the playlist in question and download the songs. The music will now shop up in your desktop’s “Local Files” folder, and you’ll be able to play them whenever you wish.
How to Add Local Files in Spotify on iOS
You can also add your local files in Spotify if you’re using an iOS device. Follow these steps to do so:
- In the iOS app, tap on the gear icon in the top left.
How to View Your Desktop’s Local Files on iOS
You can sync your desktop’s local files to iOS so that you can see them in the mobile app. To do so, you’ll need to enable the option first.
1. What can I do if I can’t see all my Local Files in Spotify?
If you’re not able to see your local files in the Spotify desktop client, you may need to make sure all the default sources are enabled, including Downloads and “Music Library.” Go to “Settings -> Local Files” and toggle these options on. On top of that, check to see if your Spotify app is up to date. If an update is available for your PC, you should be able to spot a red dot next to your username in the top right. If you’re experiencing the same issue on Android, you should make sure to update the app as well. Furthermore, ensure the files you are trying to add as local files are MP3, MP4 or M4P.
2. I can’t download the desktop local files on my phone. What now?
Try deleting the playlists containing local files on all devices. You can move the files to a different folder on your PC and add it as a source for the local files in the Spotify client. After that, you can start the whole process as outlined above from the beginning. If that doesn’t do the trick, it’s a good idea to perform a clean reinstall on your devices.
3. I’m not really satisfied with Spotify. Are there any worthwhile alternatives?
If Spotify isn’t doing it for you but you’d still like to stream music, we recommend these six Spotify alternatives.
