How to Connect Apple Music to Alexa: Easy Step-by-Step Guide

To connect Apple Music to Alexa, you need to link your Apple Music account in the Alexa app and set it as your default player. This lets you play songs, playlists, or artists just by saying, "Alexa, play [song name]" without mentioning Apple Music each time. Here’s how to connect apple music to Alexa:

  1. Open Alexa App → Tap "More" (bottom right) → "Skills & Games".
  2. Search "Apple Music" → Tap "Enable to Use".
  3. Sign in with your Apple ID and tap "Allow".
  4. Go to Settings → Music & Podcasts → "Family Default Services".
  5. Set Apple Music as default for Music and Artist/Genre Stations.

Now that you know the basics, let’s break it down step by step.

What You’ll Need Before Starting

Before connecting Apple Music to Alexa, make sure you have:

  • An active Apple Music subscription (without this, Alexa can’t access your library).
  • The Amazon Alexa app installed on your iPhone, iPad, or Android.
  • Your Echo device (like Echo Dot) plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi.
  • Your Apple ID and password handy.

Tip: If you need help setting up your iPhone basics like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, check our Ultimate iPhone User Guide.

How to Connect Apple Music to Alexa

Follow these steps carefully:

  1. Open the Alexa app and tap the "More" icon (bottom right).
  2. Select "Skills & Games" → Type "Apple Music" in the search bar.
  3. Tap the "Apple Music" skill → Hit "Enable to Use".
  4. A browser window will open. Sign in with your Apple ID (Face ID or password works).
  5. Tap "Allow" to let Alexa access your Apple Music account.
  6. Wait for the "Successfully Linked" confirmation.

Troubleshooting Tip: If you see "Cannot link Apple Music", check your internet connection or restart the Alexa app. Still stuck? Learn how to fix Wi-Fi issues on iPhone.

Step 2: Make Apple Music Your Default Player (Critical!)

If you skip this step, you’ll have to say "on Apple Music" every time you ask for music. Here’s how to set it as default:

  1. In the Alexa app, go to "More" → "Settings".
  2. Tap "Music & Podcasts" → "Family Default Services".
  3. Under "Music", tap "Change" → Select "Apple Music".
  4. Under "Artist and Genre Stations", tap "Change" → Select "Apple Music" again.
  5. Exit the app. Your changes save automatically.
Setting What It Controls
Music Default service for songs/albums
Artist & Genre Stations Radio stations based on artists or moods

Now try it! Say: "Alexa, play [your favorite artist]." If it plays from Apple Music, you’re set! If not, repeat Step 2.

How to Play Apple Music Playlists on Alexa

Once linked, all your Apple Music playlists sync automatically. Just ask:

  • "Alexa, play my [Playlist Name] playlist."
  • "Alexa, play my Chill Mix."

Tip: Download playlists for offline listening first. Here’s how to download music on your iPhone.

Fixing Common Problems

  • Alexa plays Amazon Music instead?
    Double-check Step 2. If Apple Music isn’t set as default, Alexa reverts to Amazon Music.

  • "You need an Apple Music subscription" error?
    Confirm your subscription is active in Settings → Apple ID → Subscriptions on your iPhone.

  • Voice commands not working?
    Update the Alexa app. Go to the App Store → Search "Amazon Alexa" → Tap "Update".

For security tips like blocking spam calls mid-playback, see Block Spam Calls on iPhone.

Why Set Apple Music as Default?

  • Saves time: No need to say "on Apple Music" with every request.
  • Works for everyone: Any Alexa device in your home uses this setting.
  • Syncs playlists: Access your curated playlists instantly.

Extend your experience: Use Apple Music in your car via Apple CarPlay.

FAQ: Connecting Apple Music to Alexa

Q1: Why does Alexa play Amazon Music instead of Apple Music after I linked them?
A: You likely skipped setting Apple Music as the default player. Go to Alexa App > Settings > Music & Podcasts > Family Default Services. Under "Music" and "Artist Stations," select Apple Music. Otherwise, Alexa defaults to Amazon Music.

Q2: I get an "Apple Music subscription required" error. What now?
A: Your Apple Music subscription might be expired or inactive. Check it on your iPhone:

  1. Open Settings > [Your Name] > Subscriptions.
  2. Renew if needed. Still stuck? Restart the Alexa app and relink Apple Music (Steps here).

Q3: Can I play specific Apple Music playlists on Alexa?
A: Yes! Just say:

“Alexa, play my [Playlist Name] playlist.”
Ensure the playlist is in your Apple Music library. For offline access, download it first.

Q4: Alexa says, "Cannot link Apple Music." How do I fix this?
A: Try these:

  • Restart your Echo device (unplug for 30 seconds).
  • Update the Alexa app (App Store > Search "Amazon Alexa" > Update).
  • Check Wi-Fi: Weak signals cause linking failures. Fix iPhone Wi-Fi issues here.

Q5: Do I need to relink Apple Music on every Alexa device?
A: No! Once set as the default player in Family Default Services, all Echo devices in your home use Apple Music automatically.

Conclusion

Connecting Apple Music to Alexa takes 5 minutes and unlocks 100+ million songs hands-free. Remember these keys:

  1. Enable the Apple Music Skill in the Alexa app.
  2. Set it as the default player—critical for simple voice commands.
  3. Use phrases like “Alexa, play Chill Mix” (no need to say “on Apple Music”).

For more iPhone audio tips, explore how to use AirPods or set up Apple CarPlay. Now say: “Alexa, play my favorites!”