Apple Music is one of the most popular music streaming services, offering millions of songs, curated playlists, and exclusive content. While Apple Music is primarily designed for Apple devices, many Xbox users want to know whether they can access Apple Music on their console.
This guide explores how to use Apple Music on Xbox, available workarounds, alternative music apps, and the best ways to stream music while gaming.
Can You Use Apple Music on Xbox?
Apple Music does not have a native app for Xbox consoles, meaning users cannot directly install and use it like other streaming services. However, there are multiple ways to listen to Apple Music while playing games on Xbox.
How to Use Apple Music on Xbox
Even though Xbox does not have an official Apple Music app, there are three main ways to play Apple Music on the console.
Using the Apple Music Web Player on Xbox
The easiest way to stream Apple Music on Xbox is through the browser.
Steps to Play Apple Music via Web Browser
- Open the Microsoft Edge browser on the Xbox console.
- Go to the Apple Music website at music.apple.com.
- Sign in with an Apple ID and Apple Music subscription.
- Select a song, album, or playlist and start streaming.
This method allows full access to Apple Music’s library but does not support background playback while gaming.
Streaming Apple Music from a Phone Using AirPlay or Bluetooth
Xbox does not support Apple’s AirPlay directly, but music can still be streamed from an iPhone using Bluetooth-enabled speakers or an external device connected to the console.
Steps to Stream Apple Music via Bluetooth Devices
- Connect a Bluetooth speaker to the Xbox using an audio adapter or compatible accessory.
- Open Apple Music on an iPhone or iPad.
- Play music and route the audio through the Bluetooth-connected speaker.
Using a PC with Apple Music and Xbox’s Media Streaming
If Apple Music is installed on a Windows PC, music can be streamed to an Xbox using the Cast to Device feature.
Steps to Stream Apple Music from a PC to Xbox
- Install iTunes or the Apple Music app on a Windows PC.
- Play a song or playlist.
- Use Windows’ media streaming settings to connect to the Xbox.
- Stream music to the console while gaming.
This method provides a more stable connection than browser streaming and allows some background playback options.
Does Apple Music Work in the Background on Xbox?
Unlike Spotify, which has an Xbox app with full background music support, Apple Music does not currently offer native background playback on Xbox.
The best way to play Apple Music while gaming is to use Bluetooth speakers, a PC, or an external streaming device. These methods allow users to control Apple Music separately while playing on Xbox.
Alternatives to Apple Music on Xbox
For users who want seamless music integration, other streaming services work better on Xbox.
Service | Available on Xbox | Background Music Support |
Spotify | Yes | Yes |
Pandora | Yes | Yes |
YouTube Music | No (only via browser) | No |
Apple Music | No (only via browser or streaming) | No |
Spotify and Pandora offer dedicated Xbox apps, allowing users to listen to music in the background while playing games.
How to Play Spotify Music on Xbox Instead of Apple Music
If Apple Music is unavailable, Spotify is a great alternative for streaming music while gaming.
Steps to Use Spotify on Xbox
- Download the Spotify app from the Microsoft Store on Xbox.
- Log in to a Spotify account.
- Select a playlist and start playing music.
- Press the Xbox button to return to the game while Spotify continues playing.
Unlike Apple Music, Spotify runs in the background, making it a better choice for Xbox users.
How to Transfer Apple Music Playlists to Spotify for Xbox Streaming
Since Apple Music does not support Xbox directly, users who want a better music streaming experience can transfer their playlists to Spotify.
Steps to Transfer Apple Music Playlists to Spotify
- Use a third-party service like TuneMyMusic or Soundiiz.
- Sign in with an Apple Music account.
- Select the playlists to transfer.
- Log in to Spotify and complete the transfer.
This method allows users to keep their Apple Music playlists while using Spotify on Xbox.
Can Apple Music Be Installed on Xbox in the Future?
There is no official confirmation from Apple or Microsoft about an Apple Music app for Xbox. However, Apple has been expanding its services to non-Apple devices, including smart TVs, Windows PCs, and Android phones.
A potential Apple Music app for Xbox could offer:
- Background music support while gaming
- Full integration with Apple accounts
- Lossless and spatial audio playback
For now, Xbox users must rely on workarounds to access Apple Music on the console.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Apple Music be played on Xbox?
Yes, but only through the web browser, streaming from a phone, or using a PC. There is no native Apple Music app for Xbox.
Does Apple Music work in the background on Xbox?
No, Apple Music does not support background playback on Xbox.
Is Apple Music available on the Microsoft Store for Xbox?
No, Apple Music does not have an official Xbox app.
What is the best way to play music while gaming on Xbox?
Using Spotify or Pandora is the best option, as they support background music.
Will Apple Music come to Xbox in the future?
There is no official announcement, but Apple is expanding its services to more platforms, so an Xbox app may be possible.
Apple Music does not have a native Xbox app, but users can still listen to their favorite songs through workarounds like browser streaming, Bluetooth speakers, and PC streaming. For a smoother experience, Xbox users can consider Spotify or Pandora, both of which support background playback while gaming.
For now, those wanting Apple Music on Xbox will need to use alternative methods until Apple releases an official app.