Apple Music is still one of the most popular music streaming services, but the recent price increase has made some people think twice. In October 2023, the monthly plan went from $9.99 to $10.99. It's not a huge jump, but it's enough to matter when you're already subscribed to several similar services.
Even so, Apple Music still offers a lot for the price. You get over 100 million songs with Dolby Atmos-powered spatial audio support, easy syncing across Apple, Android, and Windows devices, and advanced features like lyrics translation, pronunciation, AutoMix, and Pins. It remains a strong all-around option - just one that now costs a little more.
To help new users try the service, Apple continues offering a one-month free trial. Some promotions extend this to three months, and certain partner offers stretch even further. Deals through apps like Shazam or retailers like Best Buy and carriers such as Verizon occasionally give returning users another chance to try Apple Music at no cost or for a small fee.
It's also still possible for users with select high-end audio devices to claim three months of Apple Music. This post introduces 20+ ways to get Apple Music for free. Keep reading to find out how!
Keep Apple Music songs forever by saving them in formats like MP3 to play anywhere.
Method 1: Get Apple Music Free with Official Trials
Let's start with the easiest option: Apple Music's free trial. Since launch, Apple Music has given new subscribers a trial lasting 1–3 months. Most people get one month free, while certain promotions extend it to three months.
If you've used Apple Music before, you probably won't get the trial again. And when the trial ends or cancels, your music library disappears unless you continue subscribing.
If you want to avoid that, you can keep your Apple Music offline by backing it up. ViWizard Apple Music Converter helps convert your tracks into common formats so you're not locked into Apple's ecosystem. It doesn't make Apple Music free directly, but once your songs are saved, they stay with you - even without a subscription.
Option 1: Standard 1-Month Apple Music Free Trial (Most Users)
Right now, the 1-month trial is available for individuals, students, and family hosts until December 1, 2025. It's still a great way to explore the service.
- Details: Available directly from Apple for new users. The standard trial length is 1–3 months, but special promotions or bundled device offers (like AirPods) may extend it up to 6 months.
- Benefits: No third-party sign-up required.
- Considerations: Cancel before the trial ends to avoid automatic billing.
How to Activate:
Step 1 Visit Apple's official website and go to the Apple Music section.
Step 2 Sign in with your Apple ID, or create one if you don't have it.
Step 3 Choose your subscription plan (the free trial length may vary based on location and account history).
Step 4 Start streaming Apple Music for free during your trial period.
Offers may vary or change, so visit Apple's website for the most up-to-date information.
Option 2: Extended 3-Month Apple Music Free Trial (Occasional Promotions)
The 3-month trial still exists, but mainly as a device perk for products like iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Mac, Apple TV, and AirPods. Without buying a new device, getting 3 months for free is unlikely - the last time Apple offered it as a standard trial was in early 2022.
Method 2: Get Apple Music Free Forever
Some users try to keep Apple Music long-term by stacking promotions, device deals, or timed offers. This can work, but it often requires careful planning or managing between multiple accounts.
You might be thinking: I've been loving Apple Music during my free trial - why would I need an alternative? Because once that trial ends, so does your access to Apple Music's library and offline downloads. Even worse, you'll have to rebuild your entire music library from scratch.
And honestly, constantly chasing new free opportunities isn't fun. Many users eventually realize they've already used the best deals - some of which end up costing more than a normal subscription.
Join Apple Music Once, Keep It Forever
A smarter approach is simply backing up your music with ViWizard Apple Music Converter. It converts your Apple Music tracks into real audio files - MP3, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, M4A, or M4B - just like the files you'd keep in iTunes. Select your songs or entire library, choose a format, hit Convert, and you're done. All details stay intact, and your music becomes fully portable.
Whether you want backups, offline playback on older devices, or tracks for personal projects, ViWizard makes it easy and lets you keep your Apple Music collection permanently.
Key Features of ViWizard Apple Music Converter
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- Convert Apple Music songs, albums, playlists, and artists into MP3 for easy access
- Preserve lossless audio, high-resolution lossless, and Dolby Atmos quality
- Strip DRM from Apple Music for unrestricted offline listening
- Save converted audio files while retaining full ID3 tag details
Step 1Install ViWizard Apple Music Converter
Head over to the ViWizard website and download the Apple Music Converter - it's available for both Windows and macOS. Once it's installed, open the app and log into your Apple Music account directly in the built-in web player. From there, you'll be able to browse your full library, including saved playlists and albums.
Step 2Set Your Output Format
Before converting anything, open the settings menu (look for the gear icon). This is where you choose how you want to save your music. For the best long-term quality and compatibility, go with WAV - a high-fidelity format that works on almost any device. You can also fine-tune the bit rate and other details here if needed.
Step 3Select the Songs You Want to Keep
Find the songs, albums, or playlists you want to download for offline use. Click the "+" button to load them into the conversion queue. You can add as many as you like in one go. Once everything's ready, just hit Convert - ViWizard will take care of the rest.
Step 4Keep Your Music - No Strings Attached
When the conversion's done, click the folder icon to access your saved files. These are now yours to move, copy, or play anywhere - forever. Whether you're backing up your music, transferring it to an old iPod, or creating your own offline collection, these files stay with you even after your Apple Music subscription ends.
Method 3: Get Apple Music Free with Returning User Deals
If you've used Apple Music before, you may still have returning-user offers. Apple occasionally gives past subscribers a few months of service for a small fee. The last deal we tracked offered six months of Apple Music for just $3 through a direct promotion - but it has already expired. These offers are rare and change often, so act fast if you spot one, or keep an eye on this page for the latest deals.
- Details: Offer appears occasionally for lapsed or returning users, typically via the Music app or Apple's promotional emails.
- Benefits: Enjoy six months of full access, including offline listening, curated playlists, and no ads - at just $3 total.
- Considerations: You must have previously subscribed and let your subscription lapse. Availability varies by user.
- Updates: Unfortunately, this offer is no longer available.
How to Activate:
Step 1 Open the Apple Music app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
Step 2 Look for the "Get 6 Months for $3" prompt on the Listen Now tab.
Step 3 Tap the offer and confirm the promo pricing.
Step 4 Sign in with your Apple ID and start listening.
This offer may not appear for every user. If it doesn't show, check again in a few weeks or keep an eye out for an email from Apple.
Method 4: Get Apple Music Free with Apple Card Offers
Apple Card holders can get 3 months of Apple Music for free, even if they've subscribed before. These promotions provide extra access at no cost, but they're only available to Apple Card users. If you already have one, it's an easy win. If not, it could be the perfect reason to sign up.
- Details: Available for Apple Card holders, including past Apple Music subscribers in many cases.
- Benefits: Doesn't require a brand-new Apple ID. Eligible for individuals who've used Apple Music before.
- Considerations: Offer may vary by location and account status. Apple Card is available to U.S. residents only, and the offer doesn't cover existing subscribers.
- Updates: Unfortunately, this offer is no longer available.
How to Activate:
Step 1 Open the Wallet app on your iPhone and access your Apple Card.
Step 2 Look for the "3 months of Apple Music free" banner in the Apple Card interface.
Step 3 Tap the offer and follow the on-screen instructions.
Step 4 Sign in with your Apple ID and confirm your Apple Music trial.
If you don't see the banner, check for updates or try again later - it may not be available to every Apple Card user at all times.
Method 5: Get Apple Music Free with Device Promotions
For those deep in the Apple ecosystem, buying certain Apple devices can unlock 3 months of Apple Music for free. New iPhones, iPads, AirPods, Beats, and HomePods often include this perk. If you just made a purchase - or are planning to - you could score extra streaming time.
However, note that Apple shortened this offer from 6 months to 3 months. So it's definitely not the most practical strategy if your only goal is free music.
- Details: Applies to new or eligible Apple devices: iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Mac, Apple TV, AirPods, AirPods Pro, AirPods Max, HomePod, HomePod mini, and Beats (excluding Beats Flex).
- Benefits: Full three-month trial with offline downloads and access to the entire Apple Music library.
- Considerations: Best suited if you've recently purchased or plan to purchase an Apple device.
How to Activate:
Step 1 Visit Apple's promo page to check eligible products.
Step 2 Update your device to the latest version of iOS, iPadOS, or macOS.
Step 3 Pair eligible audio devices (AirPods, Beats) with your iPhone or iPad.
Step 4 Open the Apple Music app and sign in with your Apple ID.
Step 5 If the offer doesn't appear, go to the Listen Now tab and tap "Get 6 Months Free."
You have 90 days from the day you set up or pair your device to claim this offer. Only new Apple Music users are eligible.
Method 6: Get Apple Music Free with Carrier Promotions
Some mobile carriers offer Apple Music for free for a limited time with select plans or devices. Verizon, EE Mobile, and iD Mobile are examples. These promotions can give you several months free, but availability depends on your carrier and changes from time to time.
Option 1: Get 6 Months Free with Verizon
Verizon Unlimited customers with eligible plans can benefit from six months of Apple Music for free. This offer applies to several Verizon Unlimited plans and is available for both new and eligible returning customers.
- Details: Verizon offers Apple Music 6 months free with some mobile plans for new and returning customers: 5G Start Unlimited, 5G Do More Unlimited, and 5G Play More Unlimited.
- Benefits: Both new and returning customers can access this promo. If you've already subscribed to Apple Music, you'll be directed to cancel your duplicate Apple Music subscription.
- Considerations: Must keep an eligible Verizon plan active for the duration of the offer. Apple Music will end automatically after 6 months for customers in Mexico, while others will be charged $10.99 per month for individuals in the U.S.
How to Activate:
Step 1 Visit vzw.com/applemusic or find it in the My Verizon app under "Account."
Step 2 Select the lines you want to enroll in Apple Music.
Step 3 Each enrolled line will receive a text message with a link to download or open the Apple Music app.
Step 4 Once activated, manage or cancel your subscription through the My Verizon app or the Verizon website.
This offer is available for Verizon Unlimited customers. Check Verizon's official website for the latest details on eligibility and availability.
Option 2: Get 6 Months Free with EE Mobile
UK-based EE Mobile customers with an Inclusive Extras plan get something extra indeed - up to six months of Apple Music for free, with the added bonus of data for streaming already covered. That means no bill surprises while you binge your favorites.
- Details: Bundled with select EE mobile plans in the UK.
- Benefits: No data charges for streaming Apple Music.
- Considerations: Limited to UK customers; verify availability.
How to Redeem:
Step 1 Text MUSIC to 150 on your EE mobile device.
Step 2 Reply YES to the confirmation text (with bill payer's permission).
Step 3 Follow the instructions in the follow-up text to activate your free trial.
Option 3: Get 3 Months Free with iD Mobile
New iD Mobile customers can snag three months of Apple Music for free, while returning users get two. Whether you're switching providers or just signed a new phone deal, this little bonus makes the switch even sweeter.
- Details: Available to new and returning subscribers who purchase any phone or SIM-only plan at idmobile.co.uk.
- Benefits: Bundled for added value with mobile plans.
- Considerations: Redemption instructions are included in the order confirmation email or sent 12 days after purchase.
How to Redeem:
Step 1 Purchase a phone or SIM-only plan at idmobile.co.uk.
Step 2 Check your order confirmation email or the follow-up email sent 12 days post-purchase.
Step 3 Click the banner in the email, which directs you to Apple's website.
Step 4 Follow the on-screen instructions to activate your free trial.
Method 7: Get Apple Music Free with Retailer / Console Promotions
Certain retailers and gaming consoles sometimes bundle Apple Music with purchases. PlayStation 5, Best Buy, Walmart, Target, and iStyle have offered free trials in the past. You can get several months free this way, but it usually requires buying an eligible product.
Option 1: Get 6 Months Free with PlayStation 5
Own a PS5? Then you're already halfway there. New and eligible returning subscribers can score up to six months of Apple Music by simply downloading the app on your console and signing in.
- Details: PS5 owners may receive up to 6 months of Apple Music.
- Benefits: Integrates seamlessly with PS5 consoles for Apple Music streaming while gaming.
- Considerations: This offer may change. Alternatively, the free access to Apple TV+ is available for an extended trial period of 3 months, which is also time-limited.
How to Activate:
Step 1 Go to your PlayStation Store and search for Apple TV (if Apple Music is available, search for Apple Music instead).
Step 2 Find the Apple TV app in the TV and Video section on PS4 or in the Media Home on PS5.
Step 3 Download and open the Apple TV app and follow the on-screen instructions.
Step 4 Sign in with or create your Apple Account.
Step 5 Take the 3-month extended trial of Apple TV+.
Option 2: Get 3 Months Free with Best Buy
Best Buy occasionally bundles a 3-month Apple Music trial with purchases - especially electronics or Apple gear. If you're already shopping there, this is one more reason to add to cart.
- Details: Requires signing up via Best Buy's membership or promotions with an Apple ID.
- Benefits: Convenient access for Best Buy customers.
- Considerations: Valid only for Apple Music in the United States. Expiration windows may vary.
How to Redeem:
Step 1 Visit Best Buy's website and create an account if you don't already have one.
Step 2 Add the "Free Apple Music for Three Months" promotion to your cart.
Step 3 Complete the checkout process (no purchase required).
Step 4 Wait for the promotional code to be emailed to you.
Step 5 Redeem the code in one of the following ways:
- On Best Buy's Website: Click the "Redeem Now" button in your email and enter the code.
- In Apple Music App: Go to Settings > Account > Redeem Gift Card or Code, enter the 16-digit code, and tap "Redeem."
Option 3: Get 4 Months Free with Walmart
Walmart rolls out Apple Music deals from time to time, offering a 3-month free trial on select purchases. Ideal if you're grabbing a new set of earbuds or upgrading your tech - just check if your item qualifies.
- Details: Seasonal or campaign-based promotions in Walmart stores or online.
- Benefits: Significant value bundled with electronics or Apple product purchases.
- Considerations: Keep track of valid promotional periods.
Option 4: Get 3 Months Free with Target
Target Circle members can claim up to two months of free Apple Music as part of their loyalty perks. If you're already earning rewards while shopping, this one's a no-brainer. Music and savings in one go.
- Details: Offered through the Target Circle loyalty program.
- Benefits: Perfect for regular Target shoppers who can pair this with other Circle rewards.
- Considerations: May be limited to specific promotional periods. Check availability on Target's website or app.
How to Redeem:
Step 1 Sign up for Target Circle via the Target app or website.
Step 2 Check the "Offers" section for the Apple Music promotion.
Step 3 Follow the instructions provided to redeem your 2-month free trial.
Option 5: Get 3 Months Free with iStyle
iStyle offers a 3-month Apple Music free trial through newsletter promotions. Signing up gives you access to exclusive deals and updates.
- Details: Available to iStyle newsletter subscribers.
- Benefits: Tied to Apple enthusiasts looking for discounts or product news.
- Considerations: Subject to newsletter timing.
How to Redeem:
Step 1 Subscribe to the iStyle newsletter on their website.
Step 2 Wait for the promotional email with the redemption details.
Step 3 Follow the instructions to claim your free trial.
Option 6: Get 2 Months Free with American Airlines
Frequent flyers, this one's for you. American Airlines lets you stream two months of Apple Music for free - ideal for turning layovers and long-hauls into curated listening sessions with Spatial Audio and no ads.
- Details: Offered through in-flight entertainment services to new Apple Music users.
- Benefits: Includes access to in-flight Wi-Fi for streaming Apple Music.
- Considerations: Available only on flights with Viasat Wi-Fi.
How to Redeem:
Step 50 Connect to Viasat Wi-Fi on an eligible American Airlines flight.
Step 51 Look for the Apple Music promotion in the in-flight entertainment portal.
Step 52 Follow the on-screen instructions to activate your free trial.
Method 8: Get Apple Music Free with Redemption Links
Apple Music occasionally provides free access through promotional or partner redemption links. They're easy to redeem, but the offers are short-term and may expire soon.
Method 9: Get Apple Music Free with App Promotions
Apps like Shazam and other music apps sometimes include Apple Music free trials. These can range from one to two months and are great for exploring Apple Music while using apps you already enjoy. The tradeoff is that some promotions require app registration - which may feel pointless if you don't plan to use the app.
Option 1: Get 2 Months Free with Djay
If you're the type to mix your own beats, the Djay app offers a 2-month Apple Music trial for new users. You'll be able to access your favorite tracks for mixing, experimenting, or just vibing in the moment.
- Details: Requires a Djay app subscription to maximize benefits.
- Benefits: Access Apple Music's catalog and DJ tools.
- Considerations: Check for availability, as this offer may vary.
How to Redeem:
Step 1 Download the Djay app from the App Store.
Step 2 Look for the Apple Music promotion within the app.
Step 3 Follow the on-screen instructions to redeem your trial.
Option 2: Get 1 Month Free with Shazam
Here's a cool one: discover a song using Shazam, and you could unlock a 2-month trial of Apple Music and Apple Music Classical. It's a great excuse to tap that Shazam button more often - especially if you're hearing something new.
- Details: Available to new subscribers through Shazam's app. The offers must be redeemed via the Shazam mobile app for Android or iOS.
- Benefits: Simple access through the Shazam app without purchase requirements. Identify a song with Shazam and create a "My Shazam Tracks" playlist for seamless music syncing.
- Considerations: This promotion may be seasonal, though Shazam has not specified an expiration date. Check directly through Shazam for validity.
How to Redeem:
Step 1 Download the Shazam app from the App Store or Google Play.
Step 2 Use Shazam to identify a song.
Step 3 Look for the promotional banner offering the free trial.
Step 4 Tap the banner and follow the on-screen instructions to redeem your 2-month free trial.
Method 10: Get Apple Music Free with Student Plan
Apple Music gives students several ways to keep costs low - or even free at first. Students can try Apple Music for free, then pay just $5.99 instead of $10.99, plus get Apple TV+ for free for several months. You'll need to verify your status through UNiDAYS. Once verified, you'll have the same benefits as the full-priced plan. It's a simple and affordable way for students to get discounted Apple Music.
Method 11: Get Apple Music Free with Family Plan
The Family Plan costs $16.99 per month and allows up to six people to share a single subscription. Everyone gets their own individual account, personalized recommendations, and separate music libraries - while splitting the cost. The only limitation is that access is tied to group membership.
Bonus: Bundle Apple Music with Apple One
Apple One bundles Apple Music with services like Apple TV+, Arcade, and iCloud. It's great for users who want multiple Apple services at a reduced combined price. The tradeoff is that it's a longer-term commitment rather than a simple trial, but it adds value for heavy Apple users.
- Individual Plan: $14.95 per month and includes 50GB of iCloud storage, saving about $6 compared to subscribing to each service separately.
- Family Plan: $19.95 per month for up to six people, with 200GB of iCloud storage. This tier saves about $8 per month compared to individual subscriptions.
- Premier Plan: $29.95 per month, offering 2TB of iCloud storage, along with Apple News+ and Apple Fitness+ (where available). This tier provides the largest savings, at over $25 per month.
FAQs: Apple Music Free Trial
Is Apple Music offering a free trial for 6 months?
Yes, Apple Music is currently offering a free trial for 6 months to eligible customers with audio devices. If you don't plan to buy an eligible audio device, you can benefit from the Apple Music 1-month free trial which is accessible on the Apple Music platform such as Apple Music application for desktop, mobile and web.
Can I cancel my Apple Music free trial at any time?
Yes, you can cancel your Apple Music free trial at any time during the 6-month period without being charged.
What happens after my Apple Music free trial ends?
If you do not cancel your subscription before the end of the trial period, you will be automatically charged the monthly subscription fee for Apple Music.
What is the monthly subscription fee for Apple Music?
The monthly subscription fee for Apple Music is $10.99 for an individual account and $14.99 for a family account (up to 6 people).
Can I still use Apple Music after the free trial ends if I don't want to pay the subscription fee?
No, you will not be able to access Apple Music after the free trial ends if you do not subscribe and pay the monthly fee. However, during the free trial period you'll want to download Apple Music to audio files to keep forever by some third-party software tools such as ViWizard Audio Converter.
Summary
In this article, we have introduced how to get free 6 months Apple Music in 5 easy ways. You can try one if you need it. To make your Apple Music playlists playable after the free trial, you can use ViWizard Apple Music Converter to download and convert Apple Music to MP3. The downloaded Apple Music can be played on your computer or other devices without limit. If you want to download Apple Music for free, here's the chance, just click the button below to start a free trial of ViWizard.
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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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