Music streaming has become the primary way for people to enjoy their favorite tunes. India, with its diverse musical landscape, has seen a surge in the popularity of music streaming apps. These platforms offer users a vast library of songs, from the latest Bollywood hits to regional music, making it easier than ever to discover and listen to a wide range of genres.
As the music streaming market in India continues to grow, users are spoiled for choice when it comes to the best apps to satisfy their musical cravings. Whether you’re looking for a free option, high-quality audio, or a comprehensive library of regional music, there’s a streaming app out there that caters to your needs.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best music streaming apps in India, covering their features, pricing, and the unique advantages they offer to users. We’ll also delve into the importance of music streaming in the digital age and how it has transformed the way we consume and discover music.
The Rise of Music Streaming in India
The music industry in India has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, with the emergence of music streaming as the dominant mode of consumption. According to a report by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), the Indian music industry grew by 15% in 2021, reaching a market size of ₹1,650 crore (approximately $220 million), with music streaming accounting for a significant portion of this growth.
The rapid adoption of smartphones and the increasing availability of high-speed internet have been the primary drivers behind the surge in music streaming in India. According to a report by Deloitte, India had over 700 million smartphone users in 2021, and this number is expected to reach 1 billion by 2026. This, coupled with the widespread availability of affordable internet plans, has made music streaming accessible to a larger population.
Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has further accelerated the shift towards music streaming, as people turned to online platforms to satisfy their entertainment needs during the lockdowns. This trend is expected to continue in the coming years, with music streaming becoming the dominant mode of music consumption in India.
1. Spotify
Spotify is a global music streaming giant that launched its services in India in 2019. Despite entering the market relatively late, Spotify has quickly become one of the most popular music streaming apps in the country. Offering a vast library of over 82 million songs, Spotify caters to a wide range of musical tastes, from the latest Bollywood hits to international genres.
Key Features:
- Vast Music Library: Spotify’s library includes over 82 million songs, covering a wide range of genres and languages.
- Personalized Recommendations: The app’s sophisticated algorithms provide personalized music recommendations based on your listening history and preferences.
- High-Quality Audio: Spotify offers high-quality audio streaming, with the option to stream in up to 320kbps for Premium users.
- Offline Listening: Spotify Premium users can download songs and playlists for offline listening.
- Collaborative Playlists: Users can create and share playlists with friends, allowing for a more social music experience.
Pricing:
- Free: Spotify’s free plan offers ad-supported access to its music library, with some limitations on features.
- Premium: Spotify Premium plans start at ₹119 per month, providing ad-free listening, high-quality audio, and offline mode.
2. Gaana
Gaana is one of the oldest and most popular music streaming apps in India, with a vast library of over 45 million songs across various languages, including Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, and more. Gaana has been at the forefront of the music streaming revolution in India, offering a user-friendly interface and a wide range of features.
Key Features:
- Vast Music Library: Gaana’s library includes over 45 million songs, catering to a diverse range of musical tastes.
- Personalized Recommendations: The app’s AI-powered algorithms provide personalized music recommendations based on your listening history and preferences.
- Offline Listening: Gaana Premium users can download songs and playlists for offline listening.
- Live Radio: Gaana offers a live radio feature, allowing users to tune in to various radio stations across India.
- Regional Music: Gaana has a strong focus on regional music, making it a popular choice for users seeking content in their local languages.
Pricing:
- Free: Gaana’s free plan offers ad-supported access to its music library.
- Premium: Gaana Premium plans start at ₹99 per month, providing ad-free listening, high-quality audio, and offline mode.
3. JioSaavn
JioSaavn is a music streaming app that was formed by the merger of Jio Music and Saavn in 2018. As a result, it combines the strengths of both platforms, offering a comprehensive music experience to users.
Key Features:
- Vast Music Library: JioSaavn’s library includes over 45 million songs across various languages and genres.
- Personalized Recommendations: The app’s algorithms provide personalized music recommendations based on your listening history and preferences.
- Offline Listening: JioSaavn Premium users can download songs and playlists for offline listening.
- Regional Music: JioSaavn has a strong focus on regional music, catering to users across India.
- Integration with Jio Services: JioSaavn is integrated with other Jio services, providing a seamless user experience for Jio subscribers.
Pricing:
- Free: JioSaavn‘s free plan offers ad-supported access to its music library.
- Premium: JioSaavn Premium plans start at ₹99 per month, providing ad-free listening, high-quality audio, and offline mode.
4. Wynk Music
Wynk Music is a music streaming app developed by Airtel, one of the leading telecom providers in India. Wynk Music offers a comprehensive music library and a range of features tailored for Indian users.
Key Features:
- Vast Music Library: Wynk Music’s library includes over 4 million songs across various languages and genres.
- Personalized Recommendations: The app’s algorithms provide personalized music recommendations based on your listening history and preferences.
- Offline Listening: Wynk Music Premium users can download songs and playlists for offline listening.
- Regional Music: Wynk Music has a strong focus on regional music, with a dedicated section for regional content.
- Integration with Airtel Services: Wynk Music is integrated with Airtel’s telecom services, providing seamless access for Airtel subscribers.
Pricing:
- Free: Wynk Music’s free plan offers ad-supported access to its music library.
- Premium: Wynk Music Premium plans start at ₹99 per month, providing ad-free listening, high-quality audio, and offline mode.
5. Amazon Prime Music
Amazon Prime Music is a music streaming service that is bundled with the Amazon Prime subscription. This makes it a convenient option for Amazon Prime members, who can enjoy a comprehensive music library along with other Prime benefits.
Key Features:
- Vast Music Library: Amazon Prime Music’s library includes over 2 million songs, covering a wide range of genres and languages.
- Personalized Recommendations: The app’s algorithms provide personalized music recommendations based on your listening history and preferences.
- Offline Listening: Amazon Prime Music users can download songs and playlists for offline listening.
- Integration with Amazon Ecosystem: Amazon Prime Music is seamlessly integrated with the broader Amazon ecosystem, providing a seamless user experience for Amazon Prime members.
Pricing:
- Prime Membership: Amazon Prime membership, which includes Amazon Prime Music, starts at ₹999 per year.
6. Apple Music
Apple Music is a music streaming service developed by Apple, primarily catering to users of Apple devices, such as iPhones, iPads, and Macs. While it may not have the widest user base in India, Apple Music offers a premium music streaming experience with high-quality audio and exclusive content.
Key Features:
- High-Quality Audio: Apple Music offers lossless audio streaming, providing a superior listening experience for audiophiles.
- Curated Playlists: The app’s editorial team curates playlists and radio stations, offering a personalized music experience.
- Integration with the Apple Ecosystem: Apple Music is seamlessly integrated with the broader Apple ecosystem, providing a seamless experience for Apple device users.
- Exclusive Content: Apple Music offers exclusive content, including live performances and original shows, to enhance the user experience.
Pricing:
- Individual Plan: Apple Music’s individual plan starts at ₹99 per month.
- Family Plan: Apple Music’s family plan, which can be shared with up to 6 people, starts at ₹149 per month.
7. YouTube Music
YouTube Music is a music streaming service developed by Google, which leverages the vast library of music content available on YouTube. As one of the most popular video platforms in the world, YouTube Music offers a unique music streaming experience.
Key Features:
- Vast Music Library: YouTube Music’s library includes not only official music releases but also user-generated content, providing a diverse range of musical options.
- Personalized Recommendations: The app’s algorithms provide personalized music recommendations based on your listening history and preferences.
- Seamless Video Integration: YouTube Music allows users to seamlessly switch between audio and video content, providing a more immersive music experience.
- Offline Listening: YouTube Music Premium users can download songs and playlists for offline listening.
Pricing:
- Free: YouTube Music’s free plan offers ad-supported access to its music library.
- Premium: YouTube Music Premium plans start at ₹99 per month, providing ad-free listening, high-quality audio, and offline mode.
Comparison of Music Streaming Apps in India
| Feature | Spotify | Gaana | JioSaavn | Wynk Music | Amazon Prime Music | Apple Music | YouTube Music |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Music Library Size (in millions) | 82+ | 45+ | 45+ | 4+ | 2+ | – | – |
| Personalized Recommendations | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Offline Listening | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Regional Music Focus | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | – | ✓ |
| High-Quality Audio | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Live Radio | – | ✓ | ✓ | – | – | – | – |
| Ecosystem Integration | – | – | ✓ (Jio) | ✓ (Airtel) | ✓ (Amazon) | ✓ (Apple) | ✓ (Google) |
| Free Plan | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | – | – | ✓ |
| Premium Plan Pricing (per month) | ₹119 | ₹99 | ₹99 | ₹99 | Included in ₹999 Prime Membership | ₹99 | ₹99 |
Key Factors to Consider when Choosing a Music Streaming App
When selecting the best music streaming app in India, there are several key factors to consider:
- Music Library Size and Diversity: The size and diversity of the music library are crucial, as they determine the breadth of songs and genres available to users.
- Personalized Recommendations: The app’s ability to provide personalized music recommendations based on the user’s listening history and preferences can enhance the overall experience.
- Audio Quality: For audiophiles, the availability of high-quality audio options, such as lossless or high-bitrate streaming, can be a significant factor.
- Regional Music Focus: Users in India often seek apps that cater to their regional music preferences, so the app’s focus on regional content can be a deciding factor.
- Offline Listening: The ability to download songs and playlists for offline listening is an essential feature, especially for users with limited or intermittent internet connectivity.
- Pricing and Subscription Models: The app’s pricing structure, including the availability of free and premium plans, can influence the user’s choice based on their budget and needs.
- Ecosystem Integration: For users who are already part of a particular tech ecosystem (e.g., Apple, Google, Jio), the integration of the music streaming app with that ecosystem can provide a more seamless and convenient experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS) on Best Music Streaming Apps in India in 2024
What is the best free music streaming app in India?
While several music streaming apps offer free plans, some of the best options for free music streaming in India include Spotify, Gaana, JioSaavn, and YouTube Music. These apps provide access to a vast library of songs and playlists, albeit with some limitations on features like offline listening and high-quality audio.
Which music streaming app has the largest library in India?
Among the top music streaming apps in India, Spotify boasts the largest music library, with over 82 million songs. Gaana and JioSaavn also offer extensive libraries, with over 45 million songs each, catering to a wide range of musical tastes.
Which music streaming app has the best audio quality in India?
For the best audio quality, Apple Music and Spotify are the top choices, as they both offer lossless and high-resolution audio streaming options. These apps provide a superior listening experience for audiophiles and music enthusiasts who prioritize sound quality.
Which music streaming app has the best regional music selection in India?
Apps like Gaana, JioSaavn, and Wynk Music have a strong focus on regional music, with dedicated sections and features for users seeking content in their local languages. These apps cater to the diverse musical preferences across different regions in India.
Is it worth getting a paid subscription for a music streaming app in India?
Paid subscriptions for music streaming apps can provide several benefits, including ad-free listening, higher-quality audio, offline mode, and access to exclusive content. The decision to opt for a paid plan depends on the user’s budget and the specific features they value most. For users who frequently stream music or seek a premium listening experience, a paid subscription can be a worthwhile investment.
Conclusion on Top Musical Streaming apps in india 2024
The music streaming landscape in India has evolved significantly, with a wide range of apps catering to the diverse musical preferences of users. From global giants like Spotify to homegrown platforms like Gaana and JioSaavn, the best music streaming apps in India offer a comprehensive and personalized music experience.
When choosing the right app, factors such as music library size, audio quality, regional music focus, offline listening, and pricing can all play a crucial role.
By considering these key features and aligning them with your personal preferences, you can find the best music streaming app to suit your needs and elevate your musical journey.
As the adoption of music streaming continues to grow in India, users can look forward to even more innovative and feature-rich apps that cater to their evolving musical tastes.
Staying attuned to the latest developments in the industry and exploring the diverse offerings can help you discover the perfect music streaming app that resonates with your personal musical preferences.
