Apple Music gives access to millions of songs, but DRM remains a limitation. Apple removed DRM from iTunes purchases in 2009, offering them as 256 Kbps AAC files. Similarly, iTunes Match can upgrade matched or uploaded tracks to DRM-free versions for a small fee. However, AAC files are less compatible than MP3. MP3 offers broader support across Android devices, car stereos, MP3 players, and smartwatches. DRM-free purchases can be converted to MP3 with iTunes, but you need to own the tracks first.
So, can you convert Apple Music to MP3? Yes, for purchased iTunes Plus songs through iTunes or the Music app's built-in conversion settings, but not directly for Apple Music subscription songs or downloads. To save Apple Music subscription songs as MP3 files, users need alternative methods such as dedicated Apple Music converter software, open-source tools, online converters, or audio recording software.
In this guide, we will explore different methods for converting Apple Music to MP3, including example tools such as ViWizard Apple Music Converter. Each method has its own workflow, advantages, and limitations, so the best option depends on your needs.
Need Apple Music in more flexible audio formats? ViWizard Apple Music Converter helps Apple Music subscribers create a personal music library with seamless music backup. Build your collection and keep your music beyond the Apple Music app.
Part 1. Can You Convert Apple Music to MP3?
Yes, Apple Music can be converted to MP3, but the method depends on the music source. Apple Music subscription downloads and iTunes Store purchases work differently. Users with DRM-free iTunes Plus purchases can convert songs directly using Apple's built-in tools, while Apple Music subscribers usually need dedicated conversion or recording solutions.
Apple Music subscription downloads are protected audio files designed for offline listening within the Apple Music app rather than standard MP3 files. Although users can download songs, these files are protected by FairPlay DRM, so they cannot be converted directly with regular audio converters. To create MP3 files from Apple Music, users need dedicated Apple Music converter software, open-source tools, online converters, or audio recording software.
In contrast, iTunes Plus songs are DRM-free AAC files and can be converted to MP3 through iTunes or the Music app's built-in conversion settings. Apple states that "you can convert iTunes Store purchases only if they're iTunes Plus songs." For eligible content, users can "convert a song to a different file format" by changing the Import Settings, selecting a format, and creating a new version of the song.
Is It Legal to Convert Apple Music to MP3?
It depends on where you live and how you plan to use the converted files. Apple Music tracks are protected by DRM, and removing this protection might break copyright laws like the DMCA in the U.S. or Apple's Terms of Service. In some places, converting music for personal use is allowed, but it's still legally risky. Always check your local laws to be sure.
Will My Apple Music Tracks Still Work After Conversion?
No, Apple Music tracks are tied to your subscription. Once you cancel, you'll lose access to them. However, if you convert the songs to MP3, you can keep them. Just remember, this goes against Apple's rules and might have legal consequences.
Does Converting Apple Music Lower the Sound Quality?
Yes, converting from Apple's AAC format to MP3 can reduce sound quality because of double compression. To keep the quality as high as possible, use a higher bitrate like 320 kbps during conversion. While it won't match the original, the difference may not be noticeable to most listeners.
What Tools Can I Use to Convert Apple Music, and Are They Safe?
Tools like ViWizard, Sidify, and Noteburner can remove DRM and convert Apple Music to MP3 or other formats. These tools are generally safe, but using them could violate Apple's terms. If you stick to personal use and don't share the files, the risk is lower, but caution is still needed.
Can Apple Tell If I Convert Apple Music to MP3?
Apple doesn't actively monitor for DRM removal, but sharing the converted files could lead to penalties. To stay safe, keep the MP3 files for personal use only and avoid uploading or distributing them.
Part 2. How to Convert Apple Music to MP3 with Dedicated Apple Music Converter Software
Dedicated Apple Music converter software helps convert Apple Music tracks, albums, and playlists into formats such as MP3. These tools load Apple Music content, process the audio, and save it as local files. The general workflow includes installing the software on Windows or Mac, adding Apple Music songs, selecting MP3 as the output format, adjusting audio settings, choosing a save location, and starting the conversion.
Examples include ViWizard Apple Music Converter, NoteBurner Apple Music Converter, Sidify Apple Music Converter, and TuneFab Apple Music Converter. These tools offer similar conversion workflows but target different user needs. ViWizard focuses on Apple Music conversion with a built-in Apple Music Web Player, allowing users to sign in to their Apple Music library and convert individual songs or entire collections through a simple interface. NoteBurner and Sidify support multiple music source options, including iTunes, the Apple Music app, and Apple Music Web Player. TuneFab combines Apple Music conversion with other music conversion features through its All-in-One Music Converter.
All of these tools support common features such as preserving song information, batch conversion, and multiple output formats. However, they may differ in supported formats, conversion speed, metadata support, and additional features. Users can compare supported systems, features, and pricing before choosing a suitable tool.
- Direct Apple Music conversion workflow for songs, albums, and playlists
- Flexible MP3 output settings, including bitrate, sample rate, and other audio options
- Supports batch conversion and music library management features
- Usually preserves metadata such as song titles, artists, albums, and artwork
- Suitable for users who need regular and consistent conversions
- Full features and unlimited conversion usually require paid software
- Requires installing desktop software before use
- May require Apple Music account access within the application
- Features and output options vary between different converters
2.1Convert Apple Music to MP3 with ViWizard Apple Music Converter
ViWizard Apple Music Converter is a desktop audio conversion application developed by ViWizard for Windows and macOS. It converts Apple Music content, including songs, albums, playlists, and artists, into common audio formats while preserving available lyrics. According to ViWizard's official technical specifications, supported output formats include MP3, M4A, M4B, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, and "Recommended" formats.
To convert Apple Music to MP3, users install ViWizard Apple Music Converter, sign in to Apple Music through the built-in Apple Music Web Player, select Apple Music content, and add it to the conversion list. They can then choose MP3 as the output format, adjust settings such as bitrate, sample rate, bit depth, and channel options, and start the conversion. The workflow requires a supported Windows or macOS system and an active Apple Music account to access Apple Music content through the built-in player.
Key Features of ViWizard Apple Music Converter
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- Convert Apple Music songs, playlists, albums, and artists
- Export Apple Music in 6 formats for different devices and players
- Preserve metadata and lyrics when creating music collections
- Organize converted music by artist and album
- Batch download large Apple Music collections
01Download and install ViWizard Apple Music Converter on your Windows or Mac computer.
02Open ViWizard Apple Music Converter.
03Sign in with your Apple Music account through the built-in Apple Music Web Player.
04Browse your Apple Music library and select the songs, albums, or playlists you want to convert.
05Click Add Music to load the selected content into the conversion list.
06Click the Format button at the bottom of the interface.
07Select MP3 as the output format.
08Adjust settings such as bitrate, sample rate, bit depth, channel, and output folder if needed.
09Click Convert to start converting Apple Music to MP3.
10Click the Converted tab to locate your converted MP3 files.
2.2Convert Apple Music to MP3 with NoteBurner Apple Music Converter
NoteBurner Apple Music Converter is a desktop audio conversion application developed by NoteBurner for Windows and macOS. It converts Apple Music songs, iTunes M4P audio, and audiobooks into formats including MP3, AAC, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, and ALAC. According to NoteBurner's official product information, the Windows version supports Windows 11, Windows 10, and Windows 8/7, while the Mac version supports recent macOS versions listed on its official download pages.
To convert Apple Music to MP3, users install NoteBurner Apple Music Converter, choose the audio source, select Apple Music content, choose MP3 as the output format, and start the conversion. The software supports multiple output formats and music information preservation. NoteBurner states that its converter can retain ID3 tags, including details used to organize music files.
01Download and install NoteBurner Apple Music Converter on your Windows or Mac computer.
02Open NoteBurner Apple Music Converter.
03Choose the Apple Music conversion mode or available music source option.
04Sign in with your Apple Music account if required.
05Click Add at the top of the interface.
06Select the Apple Music songs, albums, or playlists you want to convert.
07Click the Settings icon.
08Select MP3 from the output format options.
09Adjust output settings such as output folder, file name, and other preferences.
10Click Convert to start converting Apple Music tracks.
11Click History to find the converted MP3 files.
Read More: NoteBurner Apple Music Converter Review & Guide
2.3Convert Apple Music to MP3 with Sidify Apple Music Converter
Sidify Apple Music Converter is a desktop audio conversion application developed by Sidify for Windows and macOS. It processes Apple Music songs and other Apple-related audio content and converts them into formats including MP3, AAC, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, and ALAC.
To convert Apple Music to MP3, users open Sidify Apple Music Converter, select Apple Music content, choose MP3 as the output format, adjust available audio settings, and start the conversion. According to its official product descriptions, the software can retain metadata such as song titles, artists, albums, and cover artwork after conversion. Available workflows and functions may vary depending on the version and platform.
01Download and install Sidify Apple Music Converter on your Windows or Mac computer.
02Open Sidify Apple Music Converter.
03Select your Apple Music source option, such as Apple Music Web Player, Apple Music app, or iTunes.
04Sign in with your Apple Music account if required.
05Click Add to browse your Apple Music library.
06Select the songs, albums, or playlists you want to convert.
07Click the Settings or gear icon.
08Select MP3 as the output format.
09Adjust settings such as output folder, file name, and lyrics options.
10Click Convert to start the conversion.
11Open the output folder to find the converted MP3 files.
Read More: Sidify Apple Music Converter Review & Guide
2.4Convert Apple Music to MP3 with TuneFab Apple Music Converter
TuneFab Apple Music Converter is a desktop audio conversion program developed by TuneFab for Windows and macOS. It converts Apple Music songs, albums, and playlists into formats including MP3, M4A (AAC), WAV, FLAC, AIFF, and M4A (ALAC).
To convert Apple Music to MP3, users open TuneFab All-in-One Music Converter, select the Apple Music converter module, access Apple Music through the built-in Apple Music Web Player or available workflow, select Apple Music content, choose MP3 as the output format, adjust output settings, and save the converted files locally. TuneFab supports features such as batch conversion, multiple output formats, and music information preservation. It also provides options for customizing output settings and organizing converted files.
01Download and install TuneFab All-in-One Music Converter on your Windows or Mac computer.
02Open TuneFab All-in-One Music Converter.
03Select Apple Music Converter from the available modules.
04Sign in to Apple Music through the built-in Apple Music Web Player.
05Browse Apple Music and select the songs, albums, or playlists you want to convert.
06Click Add to conversion list or drag the selected songs into the conversion panel.
07Open Preferences > Advanced from the menu.
08Select MP3 as the output format.
09Adjust output settings such as quality, file location, and other preferences.
10Click Convert All to start converting Apple Music tracks.
11Check the output folder for the converted MP3 files.
Read More: TuneFab Apple Music Converter Review & Guide
Part 3. How to Convert Apple Music to MP3 for Free with Open-Source Tools
Open-source Apple Music downloaders provide a free option for users who prefer community-developed tools and are comfortable with technical setup. These tools typically require installing dependencies, configuring settings, and using command-line instructions.
One example is Gamdl, an open-source command-line Apple Music downloader. Users need to set up the required environment, configure the tool, provide Apple Music links, select output settings, and run commands to process audio files.
The main advantages of open-source tools are that they are free and customizable. However, they usually lack a simple user interface, and users must handle installation, updates, and troubleshooting themselves. This approach is better suited for users with technical experience.
- Free to use with publicly available source code
- Provides advanced customization options for experienced users
- Supports command-line workflows with flexible configuration options
- Can handle songs, albums, playlists, and metadata-related features
- Suitable for users who prefer technical control over a graphical interface
- Requires technical knowledge and command-line experience
- Setup may involve dependencies such as Python, FFmpeg, or configuration files
- No traditional graphical interface for beginners
- May require troubleshooting when services or APIs change
3.1Convert Apple Music to MP3 with Gamdl Apple Music Downloader
Gamdl (Glomatico's Apple Music Downloader) is an open-source command-line application available through GitHub. The project describes itself as "a command-line app for downloading Apple Music songs, music videos and post videos." Unlike desktop converter applications with graphical interfaces, Gamdl requires command-line operation and technical setup.
According to its documentation, Gamdl requires Python 3.10 or later and an active Apple Music subscription. Users must install required dependencies and configure the application based on repository instructions.
To process Apple Music content, users provide Apple Music URLs through command-line commands. The tool supports songs, music videos, and post videos, with features including metadata handling, synchronized lyrics support, and configuration options. Since Gamdl uses a command-line workflow, users need familiarity with terminal commands and configuration files. It provides a free, open-source option for users who prefer technical tools over graphical interfaces.
01Install Python 3.10 or later on your computer.
02Enable Add Python to PATH during installation.
03Download and install FFmpeg.
04Add the FFmpeg bin folder to your system PATH.
05Open Command Prompt or Terminal.
06Install Gamdl with pipx or pip.
07Open the Apple Music Web Player in your browser.
08Sign in with your Apple Music account.
09Export Apple Music cookies in Netscape format and save the file as cookies.txt.
10Copy the Apple Music song, album, playlist, or other supported content link.
11Open Command Prompt or Terminal in the download folder.
12Run the Gamdl command with the Apple Music URL:
13Wait for Gamdl to process and download the files.
Read More: Gamdl Apple Music Downloader Review & Guide
Part 4. How to Convert Apple Music to MP3 Online with Web-Based Tools
Online Apple Music converters allow users to process Apple Music content through a web browser without installing software. The workflow usually involves submitting an Apple Music song or album link, selecting available options, and downloading the processed file.
One example is AAPLMusicDownloader, which provides a browser-based workflow for processing Apple Music links. Users submit a track URL, wait for processing, and download the available audio file.
The main advantage of online tools is convenience because they require no installation and work across different operating systems. However, they may have limitations such as fewer output options, slower processing speeds, file size restrictions, and fewer customization features. This method is better suited for occasional conversions rather than large music collections.
- No software installation required
- Works directly through a web browser
- Simple workflow by submitting supported Apple Music links
- Suitable for occasional conversions and quick access
- Output quality, formats, and features may vary between services
- Provides less control over audio settings than desktop software
- Availability and reliability may change over time
- Some tools may have download limits, advertisements, or unclear service stability
4.1Convert Apple Music to MP3 with AAPLMusicDownloader
AAPLMusicDownloader is a web-based tool designed to process Apple Music links through an online interface. Unlike desktop Apple Music converter applications, it does not require installation and can be accessed through a web browser on supported devices.
To use AAPLMusicDownloader, users visit its website and paste a copied Apple Music link into the input field. After submitting the link, the service processes the URL and generates a download option, such as MP3 with different bitrate choices.
01Open the Apple Music app or Apple Music Web Player.
02Find the song, album, or playlist you want to process.
03Tap the three-dot menu next to the item.
04Select Share.
05Select Copy Link.
06Open the AAPLMusicDownloader website in your browser.
07Paste the Apple Music link into the input box.
08Click Download.
09Wait for the service to analyze the link.
10Click Generate Download Link.
11Select the available output format or bitrate option.
12Save the downloaded audio file to your device.
Read More: AAPLMusicDownloader Review & Guide
Part 5. How to Convert Apple Music to MP3 with Audio Recording Software
Audio recording software converts Apple Music to MP3 by recording audio playback from a computer instead of directly converting Apple Music files. The workflow involves selecting an audio source, playing Apple Music tracks, recording playback, editing if needed, and exporting the recording as MP3 or another format.
Examples include Audacity and ViWizard Audio Capture. Audacity is a free, open-source audio editor that supports recording and export but may require additional setup for capturing system audio. ViWizard Audio Capture provides a more automated workflow for recording streaming audio and saving it in 16 common formats.
This method can capture audio from different streaming sources, but it requires real-time playback and takes longer for large music collections. Recording quality may also depend on system settings and audio configuration.
- Provides a free or low-cost way to capture Apple Music playback
- Works with different audio sources beyond Apple Music
- Includes editing features such as trimming and audio processing
- Supports exporting recordings into formats such as MP3, WAV, and FLAC
- Records audio in real time, so longer tracks require longer recording time
- Requires manual setup of audio sources and recording settings
- Output quality depends on the recording configuration
- Usually does not preserve metadata or support batch conversion
5.1Convert Apple Music to MP3 with Audacity
Audacity is a free, open-source audio recording and editing application developed by the Audacity team. According to the official Audacity website, it is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. The software focuses on audio recording and editing, including multi-track recording, editing tools, and audio export.
Audacity is not an Apple Music converter. Instead, it captures audio playback from a computer through a configured recording source. To use it with Apple Music, users configure the audio source, play Apple Music content, record playback, and export the recording into a supported format.
According to Audacity's official documentation, supported export formats include WAV, MP3, Ogg Vorbis, FLAC, and other formats depending on the version and system configuration.
Because Audacity records audio in real time rather than directly converting Apple Music tracks, users need to manage recording sessions and adjust settings manually. Its main functions focus on audio recording and editing rather than dedicated Apple Music conversion.
01Download and install Audacity on your computer.
02Open Audacity.
03Select the system audio recording source, such as Windows WASAPI or Loopback.
04Open Apple Music and prepare the song or playlist you want to record.
05Click the red Record button in Audacity.
06Play the Apple Music track.
07Wait for Audacity to record the audio playback.
08Click Stop after the recording finishes.
09Review the recording in the Audacity editor.
10Select File > Export Audio.
11Choose MP3 as the output format.
12Save the recorded file to your computer.
5.2Convert Apple Music to MP3 with ViWizard Audio Capture
ViWizard Audio Capture is an audio recording and conversion application developed by ViWizard for Windows and macOS. Unlike dedicated Apple Music converter software, it records audio played through computer applications or web sources and saves it in different formats. According to ViWizard's official product information, supported output formats include MP3, M4A, M4B, WAV, AIFF, and FLAC.
The software provides an audio capture workflow where users select an audio source, start recording, and save captured files with configurable output settings. To convert Apple Music to MP3, users select the source or application playing Apple Music, record the playback, and save the result as MP3 or another supported format.
ViWizard Audio Capture focuses on audio recording, multiple output formats, and recorded file management. Its workflow differs from converter software because it captures playback audio instead of processing selected Apple Music tracks directly.
Key Features of ViWizard Audio Capture
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- Record streaming audio and system audio from different sources
- Capture music, podcasts, and online audio content
- Export recorded audio in 17 formats for different devices and platforms
- Record audio automatically without saving tracks individually
- Organize captured audio files with customizable output options
01Download and install ViWizard Audio Capture on your computer.
02Open ViWizard Audio Capture.
03Select Apple Music or iTunes as the audio source.
04Choose MP3 as the output format.
05Click Start.
06Open Apple Music through the built-in interface.
07Play the song you want to record.
08Wait for ViWizard to capture the playback.
09Stop recording after the track finishes.
10Open the History section.
11Find and manage the captured MP3 file.
Part 6. How to Convert iTunes Purchased Songs to MP3 Directly
iTunes purchased songs are different from Apple Music subscription tracks. Many songs purchased from the iTunes Store are DRM-free AAC files, allowing them to be converted directly through iTunes, the Music app, or regular audio converters.
This method works for DRM-free iTunes purchases but does not apply to Apple Music subscription downloads, which are protected and cannot be converted through iTunes or regular audio converters. Users with purchased songs can use built-in conversion options, while Apple Music subscribers need other approaches, such as dedicated Apple Music converters.
- Uses Apple's built-in conversion feature without additional software
- Supports formats including MP3, AAC, AIFF, Apple Lossless, and WAV
- Provides a simple workflow for compatible iTunes Store purchases
- Suitable for users who already manage purchased music through iTunes
- Only works with compatible iTunes Store purchases, such as iTunes Plus songs
- Does not convert Apple Music streaming catalog content
- Offers fewer customization options than dedicated converter software
- Not suitable for converting Apple Music libraries or playlists
6.1Convert iTunes Purchases to MP3 with iTunes' Built-in Audio Converter
iTunes includes a built-in audio conversion function that allows users to create copies of songs in different formats through its import settings. According to Apple's official iTunes documentation, supported encoding formats include AAC, AIFF, Apple Lossless, MP3, and WAV.
Users can select an encoding format and create a new version of a song in the chosen format. This method mainly applies to iTunes Store purchases that support conversion. Apple notes that users can convert iTunes Store purchases only if they are iTunes Plus songs.
01Open iTunes on your computer.
02Add your purchased songs or supported audio files to the iTunes library.
03Open Edit > Preferences on Windows or iTunes > Preferences on Mac.
04Select the General tab.
05Click Import Settings.
06Select MP3 Encoder under Import Using.
07Click OK to save the settings.
08Select the songs you want to convert.
09Go to File > Convert.
10Select Create MP3 Version.
11Find the converted MP3 files next to the original songs.
Part 7. What Is the Best Way to Convert Apple Music to MP3?
No single method works best for every Apple Music user. The right choice depends on what users want to convert from Apple Music, how often they need to convert files, the size of their Apple Music library, and how much technical control they prefer. For most Apple Music subscribers, dedicated Apple Music converter software like ViWizard Apple Music Converter offers the most balanced approach because it combines a simple workflow with features designed for larger-scale conversion.
| Method | Example Tools | How It Works | Advantages | Limitations | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dedicated Apple Music Converter Software | ViWizard Apple Music Converter, NoteBurner Apple Music Converter, Sidify Apple Music Converter, TuneFab Apple Music Converter | Uses desktop software to access Apple Music content, select songs, albums, or playlists, and convert them to MP3 or other formats | Simple workflow, batch conversion, multiple output formats, customizable settings, music information preservation | Requires software installation and an active Apple Music account; features and pricing vary by tool | Users who want to convert large Apple Music collections efficiently |
| Open-Source Tools | Gamdl | Uses command-line instructions after installing dependencies and configuring the tool to process Apple Music content | Free, customizable, and suitable for users who prefer technical control | Requires technical setup, command-line operation, and manual troubleshooting; no graphical interface | Experienced users familiar with technical tools |
| Web-Based Online Tools | AAPLMusicDownloader | Processes Apple Music links through a browser-based interface and provides downloadable audio files | No software installation required, convenient, and accessible through supported devices | Fewer output options and customization features; availability and limitations may vary | Users who need occasional conversions quickly |
| Audio Recording Software | Audacity, ViWizard Audio Capture | Records Apple Music playback from a computer and exports recordings as MP3 or other formats | Supports different audio sources and provides flexible recording options | Requires real-time playback and recording; more manual steps; quality depends on system settings | Users who need a flexible audio recording solution |
| Built-in iTunes Audio Converter | iTunes / Music app | Uses built-in import settings to convert supported DRM-free iTunes purchases into MP3 versions | Simple, built-in solution with no additional software required | Only works for DRM-free iTunes Plus purchases and does not apply to Apple Music subscription tracks | Users with compatible iTunes Store purchases |
Tools such as ViWizard Apple Music Converter, NoteBurner Apple Music Converter, Sidify Apple Music Converter, and TuneFab Apple Music Converter support Windows and macOS, batch conversion, multiple output formats, music information preservation, and customizable settings such as format and bitrate. These features make them suitable for users who need to convert Apple Music songs to MP3 in bulk.
Open-source tools such as Gamdl provide a free and customizable approach but require command-line operation, technical setup, and manual configuration. They are better suited for experienced users who prefer greater control. Online tools such as AAPLMusicDownloader offer a browser-based workflow without software installation but usually provide fewer customization options, making them better suited for occasional conversions rather than large music collections.
Audio recording tools such as Audacity and ViWizard Audio Capture capture Apple Music playback instead of directly processing Apple Music content. While they support different audio sources, they require real-time recording and additional manual steps. For iTunes Store purchases, DRM-free iTunes Plus songs can be converted directly through iTunes or the Music app using built-in audio conversion settings, but this method does not apply to Apple Music subscription tracks.
Overall, dedicated Apple Music converter software remains the most practical choice for efficiently converting Apple Music collections to MP3, while other methods fit specific needs. Users can try ViWizard Apple Music Converter to convert individual tracks or entire Apple Music libraries based on their requirements.
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Adam Gorden, the digital media specialist at ViWizard, is dedicated to providing the best solutions for digital media management, including audio and video conversion, file optimization, and media workflow enhancements.
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