Apple Music is introducing a new feature that allows users to transfer playlists and songs from Spotify and other platforms. All the details
Η Apple Music announced a new feature that promises to make life much easier for its users: the ability to transfer playlists, albums, and songs from other streaming platforms directly to their library. Until now, most people who wanted to switch services had to use third-party apps, which was often complicated and time-consuming. Now, Apple itself provides a solution through its official app, turning the process into a matter of a few clicks.
The feature was made available after a period of testing that initially took place in Australia and New Zealand. Now, users in countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, France, Mexico, and Brazil can transfer their music collections from other services. The feature is enabled through a new menu in the app's settings, called “Transfer Music from Other Music Services”, and offers the user the ability to connect to their account on another platform and choose which playlists or albums they want to transfer.
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Apple emphasizes that what can be transferred depends on each service, but users will be able to keep their content on the original platform as normal. The process, although done through Apple Music, is based on a partnership with a third-party provider that has taken over the transfer. Thus, Apple offers its subscribers a tool that until now was considered an indispensable advantage of Spotify and other apps.
The launch of the new feature comes at a time when Spotify is facing intense backlash. CEO Daniel Ek has been heavily criticized for funding the company Helsing, which is developing artificial intelligence and drones for military use. In fact, bands such as Xiu Xiu, Deerhoof and King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard announced that they were withdrawing their music from the platform, stating that they did not want their songs to be associated with “military technology.” The backlash intensified, as Spotify had already come under fire in 2024 for Ek’s statements about the cost of “content creation,” which were considered derogatory towards musicians.
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At the same time, Spotify had made massive staff cuts, increased subscriptions and removed revenue for songs with fewer than 1.000 streams, causing further outrage in the artistic world. The announcement that the company had recorded profits exceeding 1 billion euros made many musicians feel that their efforts were not reflected in their real remuneration.
In this climate, Apple seems to want to capitalize on the discontent and offer users a simple and official tool to more easily move to its own service. The new playlist transfer system is presented as a feature that not only makes it easier for subscribers but also sends the message that Apple Music can be the friendliest home for those who want to enjoy their music without restrictions.
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While the new feature is currently only available in select countries, Apple is certain to gradually roll it out globally. After all, the company knows that ease of transition is one of the biggest reasons people will decide to switch platforms. With the developments surrounding Spotify creating a growing sense of distrust among the public, Apple Music offers a timely way to welcome new users who may be considering making the switch.
Whether this move will prove decisive in Apple's subscriber growth remains to be seen in the coming months. What is certain is that the music streaming landscape is constantly changing and companies are being forced to adapt to maintain their position in the market.
