Apple Music makes it easy to transfer playlists from Spotify
The new tool removes a key barrier when it comes to switching music streaming platforms, making it easy for users to import their music libraries to Apple Music.
Apple Music introduces switching tool
Apple Music has started rolling out an integrated tool that allows users to seamlessly import their music libraries and playlists from rival streaming services like Spotify. Currently only available in Australia and New Zealand, this marks the first move to make Apple Music a more accessible option for users considering a switch.
The feature was initially spotted in February 2024 during beta-testing within the Android version of Apple Music. Its current rollout in Australia and New Zealand is likely wider testing before a border global release.
The tool integrates with the third-party service SongShift. While third-party apps like SongShift have long helped to facilitate switching streaming platforms, Apple is now taking this a step further by embedding the functionality directly into Apple Music. Effectively, Apple is making it easier than ever for users to switch to Apple Music.
How the transfer tool works
Users can transfer their favourite songs, albums, and playlists to Apple Music across iPhone, iPad, Android, and the web. Here’s how:
On your iPhone, iPad, or Android
- Find Apple Music in Settings (or within the Apple Music app on Android)
- Tap ‘Transfer Music from Other Music Services’
- Sign into your current streaming platform from the list of supported music services
- Choose what you want to transfer
- Tap ‘Add to Library’
On the web:
- Visit music.apple.com and sign into your Apple Music account
- Click your profile photo or monogram in the top-right corner
- Select ‘Transfer Music’
- Choose what you want to transfer
- Tap ‘Add to Library’
Apple then attempts to match your selections to music within its own catalog. Successful matches result in a ‘Transfer Complete’ message. If some songs aren’t exact matches, Apple shows a ‘Some Music Needs Review’ alert, offering you 30 days to approve any alternative or similar versions.
Note: Only personal playlists can be transferred. However, users can recreate third-party or editorial playlists by selecting all tracks and saving them into a personal playlist which can be transferred across.
A momentum shift for Apple?
For years, one of the biggest friction points for switching streaming services has been the hassle of losing carefully curated playlists. By integrating this transfer feature, Apple Music is addressing a major barrier to entry.
If adopted globally, this tool could help encourage subscribers to switch to Apple Music from other streaming platforms such as Spotify. With streaming market growth maturing in many major markets, this tool could be particularly important in grabbing listeners away from competitors. For Apple Music, this tool could just be the thing which persuades users to take the leap and join the platform.