Apple Music is finally giving people what they’ve wanted for years: a built-in way to move playlists over from other streaming services. No sketchy third-party apps, no endless dragging and dropping songs — just a clean, official transfer tool.
After testing it in Australia and New Zealand, Apple rolled it out this week in the U.S., U.K., Canada, Brazil, France, Germany and Mexico. The option is under a new setting called “Transfer Music from Other Music Services.” From there, users can log into their old account, pick the playlists they want to keep and let Apple do the rest. There’s also a browser-based method for anyone who prefers not to use the app.
The timing is notable. While Apple is making it easier than ever to ditch other streamers, Spotify is facing a mass breakup with indie rock staples. Hotline TNT, Godspeed You! Black Emperor, King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard, Xiu Xiu and Deerhoof have all pulled their catalogs, citing everything from low payouts to ethical concerns.
The latest wave of exits centers on Spotify CEO Daniel Ek’s venture capital firm, Prima Materia, which has invested heavily in Helsing, a defense company specializing in AI-driven military technology. Indie bands are seemingly not eager for their art to bankroll autonomous weapons.
For anyone looking for a sign to finally leave Spotify, Apple Music—which, notably also offers higher audio fidelity and live radio—just made the switch painless.
