Xbox users can now enjoy Apple Music directly on their Xbox Series S and X consoles. The popular streaming service is available through the Microsoft Store, allowing subscribers to access their favorite music, view album art, and see time-synchronized lyrics while gaming.
You can download Apple Music on your Xbox console by opening the Store app, searching for “Apple Music,” and selecting the app to install it.
Apple Music works on Xbox One, Xbox Series S, and Xbox Series X, giving players the option to listen to music in the background while playing games. This integration enhances the gaming experience by providing access to millions of songs without needing to switch between devices.
New users can even sign up for a free one-month trial if they haven’t subscribed to Apple Music before.
The app offers a seamless experience with features like full-screen album art and synchronized lyrics that don’t interfere with gameplay. Music continues to play in the background, allowing gamers to enjoy their favorite tracks without interruption to their gaming sessions.
How to Play Apple Music on Xbox Series S and X
Listening to your favorite music while gaming can make long sessions even better. If you’re an Apple Music subscriber and play on Xbox Series S or Xbox Series X, you’ll be happy to know that Apple Music is fully supported. This guide walks you through every way to play Apple Music on Xbox, from installing the app to controlling playback while you game.
Is Apple Music Available on Xbox Series S and X?
Yes. Apple Music has an official app on Xbox, compatible with both Xbox Series S and Xbox Series X. You can stream your full Apple Music library, playlists, albums, and radio stations directly from your console.
Method 1: Use the Apple Music App on Xbox (Best Option)
This is the easiest and most reliable way to listen to Apple Music on Xbox.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Turn on your Xbox Series S or X
- Open the Microsoft Store
- Search for Apple Music
- Select the app and choose Install
- Launch Apple Music from your apps library
- Sign in using your Apple ID
- You can log in with a QR code using your phone or enter your credentials manually
- Start playing music from your library, playlists, or Apple Music radio
✅ Once signed in, your account stays linked, so you won’t need to log in again.
Listen to Apple Music While Gaming
One of the biggest advantages of the Apple Music Xbox app is background playback.
How to Play Music in the Background
- Start playing music in the Apple Music app
- Press the Xbox button on your controller
- Launch your game
- Music will continue playing in the background
Adjust Music vs Game Volume
- Open the Xbox Guide
- Go to Audio & Music
- Use the mixer to balance game sound and music volume
Method 2: Stream Apple Music From Your Phone to Xbox (Workaround)
If you don’t want to use the Apple Music app, you can stream audio indirectly from your phone.
Option A: Bluetooth (Not Native)
Xbox consoles do not support standard Bluetooth audio, so you can’t connect your phone directly for music playback.
Option B: Stream Through TV or Monitor
If your TV or monitor supports:
- AirPlay
- Bluetooth audio
- Apple TV
You can play Apple Music from your iPhone or iPad and route the sound through your TV speakers or sound system while gaming on Xbox.
⚠️ This method works, but you won’t get Xbox audio mixing controls.
Method 3: Apple Music via Apple TV (Same Setup)
If you use an Apple TV on the same display as your Xbox:
- Open Apple Music on Apple TV
- Start playback
- Switch your TV input back to Xbox
This allows music playback, but it’s less convenient than using the Xbox app.
Apple Music Features Supported on Xbox
The Xbox Apple Music app supports:
- ✅ Full Apple Music library access
- ✅ Playlists, albums, and artists
- ✅ Apple Music Radio
- ✅ Background playback while gaming
- ✅ Explicit content settings
- ✅ Search and recommendations
Currently not supported:
- ❌ Offline downloads
- ❌ Lossless / Hi-Res audio controls
- ❌ Dolby Atmos toggles (handled automatically if available)
Troubleshooting Tips
Apple Music App Not Playing in Background
- Make sure music is already playing before launching a game
- Restart the Apple Music app if playback stops
Can’t Sign In
- Use the QR code login for faster authentication
- Double-check your Apple ID and password
- Make sure your Apple Music subscription is active
Audio Too Loud or Too Quiet
- Open the Xbox Guide
- Adjust the Audio Mixer to balance music and game sound
Best Settings for Gaming With Apple Music
- Lower music volume slightly for competitive shooters
- Use playlists without lyrics for focus-heavy games
- Turn off in-game music to avoid audio clutter
- Enable headset audio mixing for clearer sound separation
Final Thoughts
Playing Apple Music on Xbox Series S and X is simple thanks to the official app. For most players, installing Apple Music from the Microsoft Store and running it in the background is the best and cleanest solution.
Whether you’re grinding ranked matches or exploring open-world games, Apple Music lets you bring your own soundtrack to every session.
Enjoy the music—and happy gaming. 🎮🎵
Key Takeaways
- Apple Music is now available for download on Xbox Series S, Series X, and Xbox One through the Microsoft Store.
- Users can play music in the background while gaming with features like full-screen album art and time-synchronized lyrics.
- New users can sign up for a one-month free trial of Apple Music directly through the Xbox app.
Setting Up Apple Music on Xbox Series S and X Consoles
Getting Apple Music on your Xbox Series S or X is straightforward with multiple methods available. Each option offers a different way to enjoy your favorite music while gaming or relaxing with your console.
Accessing Apple Music Through Microsoft Edge on Xbox
Xbox consoles don’t have a dedicated Apple Music app, but users can access the service through the Microsoft Edge browser.
To get started, launch Microsoft Edge from the Xbox dashboard. Navigate to music.apple.com in the address bar and sign in with your Apple ID credentials.
Once logged in, the Apple Music web player provides access to your entire music library, playlists, and recommendations. The interface works well with the Xbox controller for navigation.
Bookmark the page for quicker access in future sessions.
For the best experience, ensure your Xbox has a stable internet connection. The web player supports most Apple Music features including browsing albums, creating playlists, and listening to radio stations.
Streaming Apple Music via AirServer Connect
AirServer Connect offers another way to enjoy Apple Music on Xbox consoles.
First, download the AirServer Connect app from the Xbox Store. This app turns your Xbox into an AirPlay receiver.
On your iPhone or iPad, connect to the same Wi-Fi network as your Xbox. Open Control Center by swiping down from the top-right corner (or up from the bottom on older devices).
Tap the AirPlay icon and select your Xbox from the list of available devices.
Now launch Apple Music on your iOS device and play any song. The audio will stream wirelessly to your Xbox.
This method provides excellent sound quality and allows you to control playback directly from your phone or tablet.
Background Music Playback While Gaming
One of the best features of Apple Music on Xbox is the ability to play music in the background while gaming.
When using Microsoft Edge, press the Xbox button to return to your game while music continues playing.
Adjust background music volume in the Xbox guide menu. To do this, press the Xbox button, navigate to the audio settings tab, and balance game audio with music volume for the perfect mix.
You can skip tracks without leaving your game by using the Xbox guide.
Quick-press the Xbox button, navigate to the currently playing music controls, and change songs or pause playback.
AirServer streaming also supports background playback. Your iPhone or iPad acts as a remote control, letting you change tracks or adjust volume without interrupting gameplay.
