Spotify’s 3-dot menu crashing app for users on iOS 16 and older versions

Update 16/12/24: Spotify has acknowledged this issue and is looking into it. Here’s a statement shared on a forum post:

We’re getting reports that accessing the song menu (3-dot menu) on NPV is causing the app to crash on iOS devices. This is being looked into.

Original article follows:

Spotify users running older iOS versions are facing a frustrating new bug: tapping the three-dot menu on the now-playing screen causes the app to crash instantly. This glitch seems to have emerged with the release of Spotify version 8.9.96, leaving a trail of complaints from iPhone owners worldwide.

The bug is widespread among devices on iOS 16.6 and earlier, including models like the iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone 8, and iPhone SE (2020). Reports also include unexpected app behavior such as freezing, playback glitches, and, in some cases, eerie crackling noises right before the app collapses. It’s the ultimate “don’t tap the button” scenario — and users aren’t thrilled.

The problem is reportedly exclusive to older iOS versions, as users on the new iOS 18 appear to have dodged the issue. Some speculate the bug may stem from how Spotify handles its options menu on legacy systems. Adding fuel to the fire, Spotify is also investigating another mysterious issue that’s causing crashes, lagging, and even overheating on iOS devices. Whether these bugs are related or just an unlucky coincidence remains unclear.

Troubleshooting suggestions, such as restarting devices or reinstalling the app, have been hit-or-miss. For many users, reinstalling the app isn’t appealing because it would mean redownloading vast music libraries — something few want to tackle right now.

This isn’t the first time Spotify has faced iOS hiccups. Recent months have seen reports of buggy playlist syncing, media playback quirks, and even locked APIs frustrating developers and power users alike. However, this three-dot crash strikes at the heart of everyday functionality, affecting simple tasks like adding songs to playlists or setting a sleep timer.

Spotify hasn’t yet issued a public statement on the issue, but with growing complaints from users — and growing buzz across tech forums — it seems likely a fix is in the works. Until then, Spotify aficionados on older iPhones might need to avoid the three-dot menu, try alternative workflows, or consider holding off on updates until the dust settles.

Whether this is a bump in the road or a sign of deeper compatibility woes remains to be seen. Either way, for now, Spotify users on iOS 16 and iOS 15 might feel like they’re stuck on the B-side of the tech experience.