Apple has just broken new ground — for the first time, its six live radio stations are available outside the Apple Music app, streaming freely via TuneIn. That means millions can listen to Apple Music’s curated stations without paying for a subscription.
What Changed?
On August 27, Apple launched its stations on TuneIn’s platform, unlocking access for its 75 million monthly users through a vast array of devices like smart speakers, headphones, car systems, and more — all without commercial interruption.
These stations include:
- Apple Music 1 — flagship pop and artist-led programming, previously branded Beats 1
- Apple Music Hits — chart-toppers from the ’80s, ’90s and ’00s
- Apple Music Country — all things country
- Apple Música Uno — Latin-focused currents, from reggaetón to música mexicana
- Apple Music Club — dance and electronic mixes
- Apple Music Chill — calm, low-tempo scores and spa-like playlists
Why It Matters
- First Apple Music content outside its app: Apple has kept its radio programming exclusive — until now.
- Audience expansion: TuneIn’s expansive reach provides Apple access to non-subscribers and global listeners.
- Strategic advantage: Apple doesn’t offer an ad-supported tier like Spotify. This move aims to funnel listeners toward paid subscriptions by providing a taste of Apple Music content.
- Industry context: Apple’s US subscriber share slipped from 30% (2020) to 25% (2024) — and global share fell from ~16% to 12%. Spotify, by comparison, grew its US share to 37%.
How to Listen
- Download or open the TuneIn app on your device (or visit TuneIn online — available on 200+ platforms)
- Search for the Apple Music Radio section or carousel featuring the six stations
Each is ad-free and available without an Apple Music subscription, though TuneIn may include links prompting you to join Apple Music for the full on-demand library.
Bottom Line
Apple’s TuneIn partnership is a clever play — it broadens the reach of its radio brand, provides a tease of premium content, and injects Apple Music into new listening environments without building ad-based infrastructure. Whether it translates into subscriber growth remains to be seen, but it’s a bold shift in strategy.
