Apple rolled out its new software update (8.4) on June 30 which features the much-anticipated Apple Music. If you’ve updated your software, and are confused about the new features, read our guide to learn more about the changes.
What is Apple Music?
Apple Music is a service that gives live streaming access to any song from its iTunes catalogue, combining it with the existing music in the music library. You can make offline and online playlists from here that can be saved on the cloud or on your devices.
Is Apple Music similar to Pandora, Tidal and Spotify?
Pandora, Tidal and Spotify are music similar streaming services, which work in slightly different ways. Pandora is available only in select countries while Tidal offers no free subscription. Spotify offers the same services as the other two, but only premium users can benefit in the UAE; it’s a paid service.
Like its competitors, Apple Music allows you to stream music on the go.
How is it different from its competitors?
With Apple Music you don't have to download any extra software or third party applications. The music is available in the iTunes library—even if it hasn’t been downloaded to the device. It is curated by human editors based on your individual taste rather than an algorithm, resulting in music closer to your taste.
Is it replacing iTunes?
Apple Music will not replace iTunes. iTunes will remain available for those interested in purchasing music, instead of streaming via Apple Music.
How is Apple Music different from iTunes Match?
Apple Music is only similar to iTunes Match if you're a paid subscriber. If you're not, you'll still need iTunes Match to store your music library in the iCloud. For those not interested in live streaming, iTunes Match is the better option at Dh89.99 per year while Apple Music costs Dh239.88 annually.
What is the new iCloud Music Library?
The new iCloud Music Library, if turned on, sends your information to Apple and stores it so that you can access your music library from all of your iOS devices. You can also save any music that you have streamed online for offline listening.
How is it different from your old music library?
Apple Music gives you access to music in the iTunes catalogue, but with additional features such as 24/7 radio and a social media stream called Connect.
Didn’t Apple already have a radio station and what is Beats 1?
Yes, but the radio station is available only in the United States and Australia. You can listen to the new radio feature from Apple Music here in the UAE.
The new radio stations are managed by people and are not algorithm based. You can also create your own station based on your favourite music.
Beats 1 is a radio station managed by Zane Lowe, Ebro Darden and Julie Adenuga. It features exclusive interviews, special celebrity programs, debut singles and more.
Beats 1 is not yet available in the UAE.
What is Connect and should I use it?
Connect allows musicians to chat with their colleagues and fans, post unfinished work and showcase videos and photos. As the audience, you can comment on and share it on other social media sites.
Should I pay for Apple Music?
Apple Music is free for the first three months. After this trial period you choose between a single member plan and a family plan for up to six members. Single member plan costs Dh19.99 while the family plan is Dh29.99 (monthly fees).
If you don’t wish to pay after three months, you can continue using the Apple Music without its live streaming and recommendation services. Remember to turn off auto-renewal at the end of three months if you don’t want to use the paid service.
A comprehensive guide on all the different features in Apple Music.
For You “For You” showcases suggested music and other playlists Apple Music thinks you might like.
New “New” highlights the latest music from artists you've told Apple Music that you enjoy.
Radio “Radio” allows you to listen to live radio.
Connect See above.
My Music “My Music” is the tab for your music library—any music you've purchased, uploaded, or transferred from Apple Music— it contains all your songs and you can organise this by different titles.
Along the top bar of the app, there's an icon to access your Music/iTunes account, two tabs that let you switch between your Library and Playlists, and a search icon.
