Why Are My Songs Downloading on Apple Music?

Your songs are likely downloading automatically on Apple Music due to specific settings enabled on your device, either for your Apple Music subscription or for purchases made from the iTunes Store. This automatic behavior ensures your music is readily available offline but can consume data and storage if not managed.

Understanding Automatic Downloads

Apple Music and iTunes offer convenient features that can automatically download content to your device. While these features are designed for ease of access, they can lead to unexpected downloads if you're not aware they are active.

Common Reasons for Automatic Music Downloads:

• Apple Music Automatic Downloads: If you're an Apple Music subscriber, there's a setting that, when enabled, automatically downloads songs you add to your library, or that are part of certain curated content like playlists you follow. This feature ensures you have offline access without manually downloading each track.
• iTunes & App Store Automatic Downloads: For music purchased from the iTunes Store, a separate setting can automatically download new purchases or re-download previously purchased items to your current device. This is particularly useful if you purchase music on one device and want it to appear on another without manual intervention.

How to Stop Automatic Music Downloads

To prevent unwanted music downloads, you'll need to adjust the automatic download settings on your device. The process varies slightly depending on whether you're managing Apple Music content or iTunes Store purchases.

For Apple Music Subscribers:

If you're an Apple Music subscriber and your songs are automatically downloading, follow these steps to turn off the setting for automatic downloads within the Music settings:

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch.
2. Scroll down and tap on Music.
3. Under the "Downloads" section, toggle Automatic Downloads (or a similar setting that initiates downloads, such as "Add Playlist Songs") off.

For iTunes Store Purchases:

If songs you've purchased from the iTunes Store are automatically downloading, you'll need to adjust the settings in your Apple ID options or the iTunes & App Store settings:

1. Go to the Settings app.
2. Tap on your [Your Name] (Apple ID, iCloud, Media & Purchases) at the top.
3. Tap on Media & Purchases.
4. Tap on View Account (you may need to sign in).
5. Scroll down to the "Automatic Downloads" section and toggle Music off.
   • Alternatively, in some iOS versions, you might find an "iTunes & App Store" section directly in the main Settings list. Within that section, look for "Automatic Downloads" and turn off "Music".

Why Manage Your Downloads?

Managing automatic downloads is important for several practical reasons:

• Storage Space: Downloads consume valuable storage space on your device, which can impact performance, especially if you have a large music library.
• Data Usage: If you're not connected to Wi-Fi, automatic downloads can quickly deplete your cellular data allowance, leading to unexpected charges or slower internet speeds.
• Battery Life: Continuous downloading, especially large files, can also drain your device's battery faster.

Quick Settings Overview

Here's a summary of where to find the relevant automatic download settings:

For more detailed information on managing your Apple Music and iTunes settings, you can visit the official Apple Support website.