[Update] Apple Music Subscription Comparison: Student, Individual and Family

Apple got the new one yesterday Apple Music Voice Subscription Introduced. This can be used on all Apple devices and - in addition to the subscription with a student discount - the cheapest of the Apple Music subscriptions to date. On the one hand, this is due to the fact that it can only be used with a single account, and on the other hand, because some functions and advantages of the other subscriptions are no longer available. In the following I have summarized for you which these are and in which details the various offers for music streaming from Apple differ.

Update (November 2, 2023): The voice subscription has been abolished again. (end of update)

Apple Music Voice subscription for only 4,99 euros a month

As part of yesterday's Apple October Keynote 2021, the iPhone manufacturer announced Cupertino unveiled its "Voice Plan" for Apple Music. This stipulates that music streaming is only used via voice requests, i.e. via Siri. This can be done with the iPhone and the Apple Watch as well as with the Mac, the HomePod (mini), Apple TV and other Apple devices. But the range of functions in the Apple Music Voice subscription for only 4,99 euros a month is also lower in other respects. Here are the most important features:

• Use Siri to select albums, songs, playlists, and stations
• Choice of 90 million songs
• More than 30.000 curated playlists
• Usable with all compatible Apple devices
• Offline access to your own media library
• Exclusive content, Apple's own shows and concerts
• On-demand and live radio stations from artists
• Free trial subscription

Update (November 2, 2023): The voice subscription has been abolished again. (end of update)

A comparison of all features: Voice, students, individual and family subscriptions

Those who are studying and can provide proof of this can get even more services with an Apple Music subscription for EUR 4,99 per month. These correspond to the regular individual subscription and include 3D audio, for example Dolby Atmos, lossless audio, lyrics, space for 100.000 songs in the library and use on non-Apple devices. This subscription normally costs 10,99 euros per month. If you want to book it for up to six people in the family, you pay 16,99 euros per month. 

All statements without guarantee; Changes possible; More about the price increase in 2022 in the post linked here

Use Apple Music for free: trial period and new devices

As with other streaming providers, Apple gives you a free trial period if you have never taken out a Music subscription with your current Apple ID. This free period for testing Apple Music is usually three months. When buying new Apple devices, such as an iPhone with iOS 15 or an iPad with iPadOS 15, there is even a six-month free trial period. All further information, products recommended by Apple such as HomePod mini, AirPods and Co. as well as the small print can be found on the Website of the Apple Music Service. There is also an FAQ with the most important questions and answers on the topic.

Johannes Domke

[On vacation] After graduating from high school, Johannes completed training as a business assistant specializing in foreign languages. But then he decided to research and write, which led to his independence. He has been working for Sir Apfelot, among others, for several years now. His articles include product introductions, news, instructions, video games, consoles and much more. He follows Apple keynotes live via stream.