Spotify debuts Apple Watch app, launches in the Middle East

Spotify expanded into two new spaces this week. First, the streaming service has launched an app for Apple Watch, with a pitch to making its entertainment even more mobile. The smartwatch app does provide playback or can serve as a wearable remote control when audio is playing from other devices through Spotify Connect. Spotify said that it will be adding offline playback in the future.

The other development for Spotify is a geographic expansion, with a launch into the Middle East and North Africa. The streaming service is now available in the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestinian Territories and Egypt beginning November 13. Both the free and premium tiers will have an experience designed for Arab audiences. In this region, Spotify will face steep competition from Deezer, which launched in the region through a partnership with the Rotana Group.