FAQ & Troubleshooting
General questions
What do I need to use Mobile MA?
A self-hosted Music Assistant server (version 2.x) your iPhone can reach. Mobile MA is an independent client — the server runs on your side, e.g. as a Home Assistant add-on or Docker container.
What is Mobile MA Unlimited?
A one-time purchase (no subscription) that unlocks every premium feature — including CarPlay, Smart Playlists and queue transfer. Your first tap on any premium feature starts a free 7-day trial, no payment required upfront.
Does Mobile MA work with CarPlay?
Yes — with Mobile MA Unlimited your complete library is available in the car: albums, playlists, podcasts, radio and favourites, artwork included.
Is any data sent to the developer?
No. The app connects exclusively to your own server. No cloud, no tracking, no accounts.
Troubleshooting
Music stutters or drops out
Increase the playback buffer in Settings — it smooths over dead zones and flaky Wi-Fi. A larger buffer is especially worthwhile when streaming over cellular.
I want to access my server away from home
Set up Remote Access via WebRTC in Settings — it lets you reach your Music Assistant outside your home network without port forwarding or a VPN.
A player is missing from the list
First check that the player is active and available in the Music Assistant server itself. In the app, pull to refresh; after network changes Mobile MA reconnects automatically.
Local playback stops when switching between Wi-Fi and cellular
Fixed since version 2.0 — please update the app to the latest version.
The widget doesn't refresh
Make sure the latest app version is installed (much more reliable since 2.3) and that Background App Refresh is allowed for Mobile MA in iOS Settings.