We live in a world today where music is as easy to avail as has ever been before. Many of us are old enough to remember the times where we would save up to buy a CD or wait hours for downloads with what is now prehistoric internet speed. But now, music streaming is just a few clicks away. Apps like Spotify, Apple Music, Gaana, Saavn etc. bring music right to your fingertips. This does, however, beg the question- which is the right streaming platform for you? Based on the needs of an Indian listener, we have narrowed it down to three contenders; Spotify, Apple Music and Gaana.
Music Catalogue
Apple Music – 60 million songs
Spotify – 40 million songs
Gaana – 45 million songs
The variety of songs a platform provides is, perhaps, the first thing one would consider, and for this, Apple music takes the win. With more than 60 million songs, it is almost definitely going to have what you are looking for. When it comes to cultural diversity, Gaana takes the lead with content in 16 different local languages as opposed to Spotify’s mere 8.
User Interface and Features
Apple Music – 60 million subscribers
Spotify – 207 million subscribers
Gaana -80 million subscribers
Spotify is easily the most subscribed music streaming platform by A LOT, and their user-friendly interface definitely is a reason. In addition to the appealing aesthetic and ease of use, it also has many additional features like videos, podcasts and a feature that matches music to your running pace!
However, Spotify does not provide good cross-platform services, unlike the other two contenders that are compatible with google home and amazon echo smart speakers.
Cost of Subscription
Apple music – Rs 99
– Rs 49 (for students*)
Spotify Premium – Rs 119
– Rs 59 (for students*)
Gaana – Rs 99
*Students must register with their student ID of a recognized university
While listening to music on Spotify for free is something most of us resort to, the ads seem like they were made to irritate the life out of you. In addition to that, not having unlimited skips and no offline listening can really take a toll on your listening experience.
Even though Apple music initially cost around the same as Spotify, Apple music slashed its prices in India in 2019 to compete with Gaana and Saavn’s Prices.
For those looking put for music quality, ensure that you get a paid subscription for higher quality audio.
Music Recommendation
Apple Music, while has some flaws certainly, ensure to remain true to one thing: a surprising, refreshing reliance on real people. From the music editors whose entire job is to create playlists and pick out music for you in the app, to the live DJs on Beats 1, and the 24/7 radio station integrated into the app.
Spotify provides a nifty section of the app that gives you suggested playlists for the time of day, from early morning to bedtime. It uses a very elaborate algorithm that works by the music you listen to and the genre. Therefore, it creates daily mixes, discovers weekly (new music) and your release radar, as well as new songs they suggest for you in your playlists.
Gaana’s engaging UX will filter music based on what you have listened to and what you have not and will suggest new content accordingly. AI and Machine Learning (ML) has been the key driver in leveraging the user behaviour for understanding taste profiles and tailoring music listening experiences for each unique user.
To conclude, while all streaming platforms have their pros and cons, it is really up to the listener to decide which suits their needs perfectly. What factors you consider and prioritize are up to you to decide. We can, however, assure you that no matter what you pick, your music listening experience will be the best that you can get today.
Written by Crew Member Liza Mathew
Artwork by Crew Member Priyesh Bahuguna
Chords & Co. 