Apple Music transfer tool

Photo Credit: Daniel Cañibano

Apple Music has introduced a highly anticipated feature—a built-in music tool to make transferring from another digital service provider (DSP) like Spotify much easier. The tool will help users import their libraries and playlists from other music services directly into Apple Music.

The only caveat is that the tool is currently in a testing phase and is only available to Apple Music subscribers in Australia and New Zealand. Switching music streaming services is not a painless process, it’s why paid services like SongShift have existed for years. But this tool would take a lot of the pain out of shifting over to Apple Music for users unsatisfied with their current streaming service.

Users must be an active Apple Music subscriber and on the latest version of the Apple Music app on their iPhone, iPad, or Android device to use the feature. The process of transferring music is pretty straight forward.

How to Transfer Music to Apple Music

  • On an iOS device, tap the Settings > Apps > Music.
  • On an Android device, open the app and tap Settings > ‘Transfer Music from Other Music Services.’
  • On the web, sign in at music.apple.com and click your profile, then choose ‘Transfer Music.’

After selecting the source music service and signing in, users can pick which songs, albums, and playlists to transfer. Apple Music then matches the selections with its own catalog and adds them to a user’s library. This new tool supports transferring content you’ve saved or playlists you’ve personally created. Playlists generated by the music service itself are not eligible for the transfer—so no re-creating Rap Caviar on Apple Music.

Apple says if it can’t find an exact match for a particular song or album, it will suggest similar alternatives. Users have up to 30 days to review and approve these alternate versions before the transfer is finalized. Currently there’s no word on when the feature will be expanded to other countries, but anyone in AUS & NZ looking to make the switch now has an easier time doing so. This tool arrives at a time when Spotify’s premium subscriber growth appears to be stalling in the United States.