We’ve had reports from customers using Android devices who are unable to see Spotify Connect as an available option when trying to stream to their Cambridge Audio product. Instead, only Google Cast appears.
Why is this happening?
Spotify have recently made changes to its Android app. If there are multiple Google Cast-enabled devices on your network, the app will automatically hide Spotify Connect and prioritise Google Cast instead. This is part of Spotify’s rollout of a new “dynamic grouping” feature.
Why does this matter?
While Google Cast works, it doesn’t offer the same level of performance or sound quality as Spotify Connect. For example:
- It may not support Spotify’s higher-resolution audio codecs
- It can lead to longer connection times
- Playback controls are less responsive compared to Spotify Connect
Is this something Cambridge Audio can fix?
Unfortunately not. This issue is entirely on Spotify’s side and specific to their Android app. Spotify are aware of the problem, as are many users, judging by the community forums, and they’ve said they’re working on it. However, we don’t yet have a timeline for when it will be resolved.
(You can follow the official Spotify thread for updates: Spotify Forum Thread)
Does this affect iOS or other platforms?
No. Spotify Connect continues to work as normal on:
- iOS devices (iPhone, iPad)
- Spotify Web Player on laptops and desktops
What are the workarounds?
If you're using an Android device and would prefer to use Spotify Connect (for better audio quality and control), here are some things you can try:
- Temporarily disable other Cast devices on your network. Fewer Cast devices may allow the Spotify app to show Spotify Connect again.
- Use an iOS device or the Spotify Web Player instead, both of which continue to support Spotify Connect.
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Disable Cast on your Cambridge Audio product:
- Perform a factory reset
- During the setup process, when prompted with the Google Cast dialogue, select "Skip". This will disable Cast and allow Spotify Connect to function normally again.
Please rest assured that we’re monitoring the situation and will share any meaningful updates from Spotify as soon as they become available.