Apple Music Price Hike: What You Need to Know
Apple Music, the popular music streaming service, has quietly increased its prices for most subscribers. However, not all plans are affected equally, with one type of subscription remaining unchanged.
As of today, individual Apple Music plans now cost $11.99 per month, a $1 increase from the previous rate of $10.99. Student plans have also seen a $1 hike, bringing the total to $6.99 from $5.99. Family plans, on the other hand, have taken the biggest hit, with a $3 increase to $19.99 per month, up from $16.99.
But what about Apple Music subscribers who are part of an Apple One subscription? While most Apple One plans have seen price increases, individual Apple One plans remain at $19.95. However, family plans under Apple One have increased to $27.95, a $2 hike from the previous rate of $25.95. The ‘Premier’ Apple One plan has also seen a $2 price increase, now costing $39.95 per month.
So, why the price hike? Apple Music cited rising licensing costs as the reason for the increase. In a statement to Music Business Worldwide, the company explained, “As a result of rising licensing costs, Apple Music is increasing its subscription price beginning today.”
While the price increase may be frustrating for some subscribers, Apple Music still offers a free trial period for new users. However, those who plan to purchase a new Apple device soon may want to take advantage of a longer free trial period. Apple offers a three-month free trial for users who purchase certain eligible devices, including:
- Apple Watch
- AirPods Pro
- AirPods Max
- Beats Headphones and Speakers
- HomePod and HomePod mini
To qualify for the longer free trial, users must purchase one of these eligible devices and then redeem the free trial offer within 30 days of activation. This will give them three months of free Apple Music, instead of the standard one-month trial.
It’s worth noting that not all Apple Music subscribers will be affected by the price increase. Those who are part of an Apple One subscription, specifically individual plans, will remain at the previous rate of $19.95. However, all other Apple One plans, including family plans, will see a price increase.
