Are you getting a “This app is restricted to Premium users only” error on Spotify?
The error message happens when you’re trying to log in to the Spotify desktop app.
It does not affect the iOS and Android versions of Spotify.
Users are unable to log in to the desktop app even though they have Spotify Premium.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to fix “This app is restricted to Premium users only” on Spotify on your PC (Windows/Mac).
- Why does Spotify say that the app is restricted to Premium users only?
- How to Fix “This app is restricted to Premium users only” on Spotify
Why does Spotify say that the app is restricted to Premium users only?

Spotify says that the app is restricted to Premium users only because it has discontinued the support for older Spotify desktop application versions.
If you’re using a version of the Spotify desktop app that’s older than 1.1.59, you won’t be able to log in.
Below is the official explanation by Lyubka, a moderator for the official Spotify forum.
“To pave the way for a broader and better user experience, we have shut down Spotify desktop application versions that have been released before April 2021”.
“That’s why customers who have been using an app version released before then will lose their access to the app”.
“If you own a computer (Mac or Windows) with a version of the Spotify app older than 1.1.59, you need to update the app to the latest version to keep enjoying Spotify”.
“We recommend making sure that your Operating System is updated to the latest version first”.
“In the meantime, you can also enjoy your favorite music and podcasts through the Spotify Web Player”.
How to Fix “This app is restricted to Premium users only” on Spotify
To fix “This app is restricted to Premium users only” on Spotify, you need to uninstall and reinstall Spotify to get the latest version of the desktop app.
Alternatively, you can install Spotify from the Microsoft Store or use the Spotify Web Player.
Fix 1: Uninstall and reinstall Spotify
For Windows:
- Close Spotify, open the Start menu, and select “Settings”.
- Apps > Apps & Features > Spotify.
- Three dots > Uninstall > Follow the on-screen instructions.
- Download and install Spotify.
For Mac:
- Open Finder > Applications.
- Drag the Spotify app into the trash and empty the trash.
- Download and install Spotify.
Note: When you uninstall and reinstall Spotify, you’ll automatically get the latest version of Spotify.
Fix 2: Download Spotify from the Microsoft Store

- Open the Microsoft Store (the icon should be located on the taskbar).
- Search for “Spotify” and click on the “Get” button.
- Open Spotify and log in to your account.
Note: Downloading Spotify from the Microsoft Store will ensure that you’re getting the latest version of the desktop app.
Further reading
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