Apple Music
5 comparisons available
About Apple Music
Apple Music is a subscription music streaming service launched by Apple in June 2015, available on all Apple devices, Android, Windows, and web. Apple Music offers a catalog of 100 million+ songs, lossless audio (Apple Lossless/ALAC up to 24-bit/192 kHz), Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos, music videos, live radio (Apple Music 1, 2, 3), and exclusive content. The service integrates deeply with Apple's ecosystem — Siri voice control, HomePod, Apple Watch, CarPlay, and iCloud Music Library. Apple Music costs $10.99/month for individuals, $16.99/month for families (up to 6 members), and $5.99/month for students. It's included in the Apple One subscription bundle ($19.95-$37.95/month). Apple Music does not offer a free tier — it's subscription-only with a 3-month free trial. Apple has not disclosed exact subscriber counts, but estimates place Apple Music at 88-100 million subscribers, making it the #2 music streaming service globally behind Spotify (252 million premium subscribers).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Apple Music or Spotify better?
Apple Music wins on audio quality (lossless and Spatial Audio), deep Apple ecosystem integration, and value within the Apple One bundle. Spotify wins on music discovery (algorithm/playlists), free tier availability, cross-platform experience (especially on Android and Windows), podcast integration, and social features. For Apple-ecosystem users who prioritize audio quality: Apple Music. For everyone else or those on Android: Spotify's broader ecosystem and free tier make it the default choice.
Does Apple Music have a free tier?
No. Apple Music is subscription-only ($10.99/month individual, $5.99/month student, $16.99/month family). Apple offers a 3-month free trial for new subscribers. Apple Music is included in Apple One (bundle with iCloud+, Apple TV+, Apple Arcade starting at $19.95/month). Unlike Spotify, there is no ad-supported free tier — you must pay to listen after the trial ends.