Apple Music continues to push their presence in China, as they sign a major deal with telecommunications company China Mobile.

Majority owned by the Chinese government, China Mobile has over one billion subscribers, making it the biggest mobile network operator in China and the world. A new deal between them and Apple Music makes it easier for customers to subscribe to the music streaming service through China Mobile’s app or at retail outlets.

Apple Music is all about the love of music, and we’re committed to bringing that love to as many people as possible. We’re excited to bring the world-class Apple Music experience to more people through China Mobile, so they can explore the world’s best music.

Wang Gang, General Manager, Migu (China Mobile’s digital content platform)

This could see Apple Music increase their presence in China. The music streaming market in China is dominated by domestic players such as Tencent Music, whose services QQ Music, Kugou, Kuwo and WeSing have 571 monthly active users and 117 million paying users. NetEase Cloud Music has around 206 million monthly active users and 42 million paying subscribers. China Mobile also has its own music streaming service, Migu, which according to Kanjian has 130 million paying subscribers.

With tight restrictions around foreign music and censorship of lyrics, Western music streaming players have struggled to make an impact in the Chinese market. Apple Music are in fact the only Western service available in China. According to Daxue Consulting, Apple Music has a limited collection of songs in the market, plus some features like podcasts and radio aren’t available.

Spotify is not available in China due to a deal with Tencent Music Entertainment. Both Spotify and TME own stakes in each other.

Did you know, getting your music available around the world, including China, on all streaming services mentioned above, Tencent Music, NetEase Cloud Music, Migu, Apple Music, Spotify and over a hundred other stores is free and easy with RouteNote. Find out more here!