Spotify app is automatically getting installed on Windows 10 & Windows 11

According to a number of people on the social networks, as well as individual reports that we have received, Spotify - the popular streaming app was installed automatically for Windows 10 and Windows 11 computers without notice. We aren't sure whether this was a deliberate choice by Microsoft or just a glitch however, the app was also able to start at startup for a lot of users.

The story is widely shared on social media platforms such as Twitter (1 2 3, 3,) as well as Reddit. There are also negative reviews on the Microsoft Store, asking Microsoft officials to explain how the application was installed automatically onto their systems.

"My computer upgraded itself over the weekend and Spotify was up and running this morning. It is the easiest way to know that I'm not a fan of the app. It was uninstalled and posted a 1 star review because it was creepy." one user observed.

"Noticed it last night. A friend of mine was aware and was also affected. It was removed immediately. The time for Windows updating using software that is bloatware is over," another user added. "Anyone using Windows 11 randomly have Spotify begin to launch on startup, even though they've never used the service before?" a user expressed their displeasure on Twitter.

"Did Windows just force Spotify on someone else during the past couple of days? Two machines have been doing this in the last few days. Much too much control is being taken over by Microsoft Now I'm thinking, now is the time to plug this brand new SSD in my Linux box and use it to perform daily activities (besides Steam)," Another user on Twitter tweeted.

We're not sure what the method of installation used to install the app on Windows computers. It's unlikely to be Spotify since it's an app that's managed by Microsoft. There is a chance that Microsoft has accidentally released the application to PCs using its app store as a result of an error in the system.

It's also possible that this feature is actually a function. It's because Microsoft has the final control over applications "rented" i.e downloads from its Store. Microsoft employs the same process to automate the installation of Candy Crush and other apps.

If you're asking "Can Microsoft Store install apps onto your computer without involvement?" the answer is "Yes you can". You don't need to be present on your phone on the desktop to give access to certain apps that are installed through Microsoft Store or Windows Update. One of the most effective instances could be Candy Crush.

If you download an app from the store you're granting Store access to your devices. Microsoft allows remote uninstall of apps at your leisure (yes it's an option).

Even even if the Spotify application has been installed onto Windows 10 / Windows 11 without explicit permission it is possible to uninstall it , and it won't install or download again. It isn't a secret that many users continue to are offended by Microsoft installing apps on their computers without consent however it can be removed.

We've reached out Microsoft for clarification and we'll amend this article when we hear from Microsoft.