By Jordan Anderson, March 10, 2026
Australian Recording Industry Association
In today’s digital music landscape, streaming has become the primary mode of music consumption, with services like Apple Music leading the charge. However, as users increasingly seek ways to manage and retain the music they love, the need for reliable download options has emerged. The Australian Recording Industry Association has a vested interest in helping consumers understand the ins and outs of music licensing and downloading. Below, we explore some straightforward and legal ways to download music from Apple Music, along with the implications for users.
The Value of Music Downloaders
Apple Music, while popular, does not offer a free tier like some of its competitors. At approximately $10 per month, many users may be hesitant to commit to a subscription without understanding the possible alternatives. This reluctance often leads users to consider various download options. However, it is crucial to opt for safe and legal methods, avoiding alternatives that may lead to malware or non-compliance with copyright laws. Below are three reliable methods for downloading music from Apple Music.
1. SpotiKeep: The Top Choice for Apple Music Downloads
Among the various tools available, SpotiKeep stands out as a powerful Apple Music downloader specifically designed for PC users. This software is not only ad-free but also emphasizes safety and security, attributes crucial for a positive user experience. As a premium solution for converting Apple Music tracks to accessible formats, it provides a unique added value.
Unlike standard streaming services that limit offline listening capabilities, SpotiKeep allows users to retain their downloaded songs indefinitely, which is especially valuable for users who want to share music with friends not subscribed to Apple Music. Furthermore, users can experience a smooth, glitch-free interface, minimizing frustration often associated with media management.
The features of SpotiKeep include:
- Support for various output formats such as MP3, M4A, MP4, FLAC, and WAV.
- Removal of DRM protection, enabling unrestricted use of downloaded tracks.
- Retention of original metadata to maintain organization.
- High-quality downloads up to 320kbps.
- Fast conversion rates for instant downloads.
Setting up SpotiKeep is a straightforward process. Once installed, it automatically syncs with your Apple Music library, allowing for rapid selection and downloading of songs. Here’s a quick guide to converting your Apple Music tracks using SpotiKeep:
Step 1: Open iTunes and launch SpotiKeep. It will automatically sync with your iTunes library.
Step 2: Select the tracks you wish to download. Thanks to the batch download feature, you can easily select multiple songs.
Step 3: Customize your download preferences, including formats and metadata options.
Step 4: Click ‘Convert’ to initiate the download process. You will be able to view your downloads in real-time, and once completed, access them without any restrictions.
To summarize, here are the pros and cons of using SpotiKeep:
Pros of SpotiKeep:
- User-friendly interface.
- No copyright issues.
- No distortion in music quality or playback.
- High degree of customizability.
- Free trial available.
Cons of SpotiKeep:
While SpotiKeep offers a 30-day free trial, users will need to subscribe afterward. Fortunately, subscription costs are reasonable, with options for yearly or lifetime plans.
2. Free Apple Music Downloader on GitHub
For those more inclined toward technical solutions, GitHub has emerged as a resourceful platform providing various tools, including Apple Music downloaders. However, this approach requires some familiarity with JavaScript and command line operations.
Here is a simplified process to download Apple Music tracks using a GitHub tool:
Step 1: Open CMD and enter “git clone [email protected]:Shubhamrawat5/apple-playlist-downloader.git” to download the repository.
Step 2: Navigate to the directory using “cd apple-playlist-downloader” and then install necessary dependencies with “npm install”.
Step 3: Modify the playlist URL in the “apple_playlist.js” file to the desired playlist.
Step 4: Execute the command “node app.js” and your Apple Music playlist will download into a designated folder along with metadata information.
Here are some pros and cons of using the GitHub method:
Pros of GitHub Apple Music Downloader:
- Easy backup for Apple Music playlists via simple commands.
- Retains original song and artist information.
Cons of GitHub Apple Music Downloader:
- Limited customization options.
- May be challenging for non-developers to execute commands.
3. Apple Music Downloader Shortcut for iOS
iOS users enjoy the unique feature of shortcuts introduced in iOS 12, enabling easy downloads of Apple Music tracks. These shortcuts inherently bypass DRM protection, allowing greater flexibility for users.
To utilize the Apple Music Shortcut, follow these steps:
Step 1: Open the desired song in Apple Music and tap ‘Share’, selecting the Shortcuts option from the share menu.
Step 2: Run the recently downloaded shortcut.
In evaluating this method, consider the following pros and cons:
Pros of Apple Music Downloader Shortcut:
- Saves songs in DRM-free formats such as M4A.
- Maintains original metadata for consistency.
- Compatible with various media players.
Cons of Apple Music Downloader Shortcut:
- Limited to iOS users only.
- Downloads are restricted to M4A or AIFF formats.
Final Thoughts
Downloading music from Apple Music can be achieved through various methods, but not all are created equal. This guide has presented three effective options for downloading music, balancing usability and legality. For a seamless experience, SpotiKeep emerges as the top recommendation, while GitHub offers a robust solution for tech-savvy users. Lastly, iOS users can greatly benefit from the built-in shortcut feature for quick downloads.
Ultimately, the best method will depend on your specific needs and the platform you are using. Whichever option you choose, ensure you are aware of and compliant with copyright laws to enjoy music responsibly.
If you seek more information on music downloading or have any inquiries about the Australian Recording Industry Association, feel free to reach out through their official website for more resources: Australian Recording Industry Association.