If you've ever tried to run with an iPhone in your pocket, you know why leaving your phone at home matters. Here are our three favorite ways to enjoy your favorite music with just a few taps of the wrist.
Apple Music
Apple Music is one of the most popular ways to listen to music on the Apple Watch, with built-in Siri controls that make the experience a breeze — as easy as saying "Hey Siri, play my workout playlist."
1. Download Apple Music
First, download Apple Music onto your iPhone, then make sure it's also downloaded onto your Apple Watch. Apple Music won't work on your watch unless you download it through your paired iPhone first.
2. Organize Your Playlists
Once the app is on both devices, your Apple Watch will mirror your iPhone selection. Recently played songs and playlists should automatically appear on your watch.
3. Play Music on a Bluetooth Device
To use Apple Music directly from your Apple Watch, connect it to a Bluetooth audio device first — AirPods or any Bluetooth earbuds or speakers. Then play music using Siri controls or directly through the Apple Music app.
Spotify
Spotify is the world's most popular music streaming service. If you're one of their hundreds of millions of subscribers, here's how to make the most of it on your Apple Watch.
1. Download Spotify to Your iPhone
Download the Spotify app to your iPhone first. Once it's on both devices, your account information syncs automatically.
2. Download Music to Your Apple Watch
To listen straight from your Apple Watch, add songs to a playlist (the Apple Watch app doesn't currently support searching outside of playlists). Then pull up the playlist on your iPhone app, tap the three dots near the top, and tap Download to Apple Watch.
3. Stream to Your Favorite Bluetooth Earbuds
Once playlists are downloaded to your Apple Watch, you can leave your iPhone at home. Just connect to a Bluetooth audio device and you're good to go.
Pandora
Pandora was one of the first major streaming platforms to make its way to our wrists. If you're still jamming to Pandora, here's how to listen directly on your Apple Watch.
1. Download the App and Sign In
Search for Pandora in the App Store directly on your Apple Watch. You don't need to download it on your iPhone first, but you will need access to your Pandora account on another device to sign in.
2. Add Stations from a Separate Device
You can't add stations from your Apple Watch — you must add them from your iPhone or any device signed into your account. To download music directly to your Apple Watch for offline listening, you'll need an active Pandora paid subscription.
3. Connect a Device and Play
Connect a Bluetooth speaker or earbuds, and enjoy your tunes — phone-free!
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