How to Subscribe to Apple Music for A Year And Cut Costs on Plans

Get Apple Music for a year and enjoy nonstop streaming, ad-free listening, offline downloads, and exclusive content while saving more than monthly plans. However, to add your favorite songs to videos, use CapCut's advanced AI tools.

CapCut
CapCut
Apr 14, 2025
86 min(s)

Apple Music lets their subscribers access an immense library of songs, playlists, and even podcasts to fit every moment in their lives. With an annual subscription, users can enjoy ad-free, high-quality songs for an entire year alongside curated playlists designed specifically for them.

This article explores the advantages of Apple Music for a year and the reasons it is the best companion for any music lover.

Table of content
  1. What is Apple Music
  2. Apple Music's yearly plans
  3. Why Apple Music for a year is better than a monthly plan
  4. How to subscribe to Apple Music yearly plan on iPhone
  5. How to get Apple Music for a year on a desktop
  6. Ways to get Apple Music at a discount
  7. How to download your favorite songs from Apple Music
  8. Bonus tip: Make stunning videos with viral music tracks using CapCut
  9. Conclusion
  10. FAQs

What is Apple Music

Apple Music provides millions of songs, albums, and playlists to choose from. It meets the needs of every individual since it includes the most recent music as well as the oldies. There is something for everyone, from a casual listener to a music enthusiast. Now, let us explore how easy and convenient it is to get a year of Apple Music and the advantages you get for using it.

What is Apple Music

Apple Music's yearly plans

Apple Music provides several yearly plans to suit diverse needs and budgets. With each plan, users have access to every feature of Apple Music, including streaming and accessing exclusive content. Here are some of the plans and associated prices to get a year of Apple Music:

  • Individual annual plan

With the individual annual plan, an Apple Music subscriber will have full access to the platform for an entire year. The benefits include unlimited song streaming and exclusive content tailored to each user. For $99 a year, this plan is best suited to single users who wish to have uninterrupted access to their music.

  • Family annual plan

With the family yearly plan, up to six family members can enjoy Apple Music on their accounts. It has the same features as the individual plan but can be shared with family and friends. The plan is well suited to families who wish to have a shared music experience, all at a minimal cost of $149 a year.

  • Student yearly plan

Eligible students have access to all features of Apple Music for the year at a discounted price because of the student yearly plan. They pay only $49 per year and get the same experience as the individual plan, which means a lot of savings for students.

  • Apple one yearly plan

Apple Music for a year with this particular plan is bundled with iCloud, Apple TV+, and Apple Arcade. At $199 per year, you access multiple services, making it ideal for those who use several Apple products and services.

  • Annual gift card plan

You can use an Apple gift card to pay for Apple Music, which is outlined in the annual gift card plan. This plan works the same as the individual plan but has more flexibility in payment. Ideal for those who wish to pay upfront, the cost changes depending on the value of the gift card.

Why Apple Music for a year is better than a monthly plan

Opting for Apple Music for a year can have a few benefits compared to paying every month on Apple Music's payment plans. The yearly subscription has some pros that make it easy and cost-effective. Let's see some reasons why taking a year of Apple Music is a better option than paying monthly:

  • Lower cost

When you pay for Apple Music for a year, you usually save some cash compared to paying monthly. The total fee is lower, so you spend less over time. This is ideal if you intend to continue to have a subscription.

  • Seamless payment processes

Paying annually enables users to skip the continuous process of making payments every month. You don't have to make payments every month, and payment notifications won't bother you. This reduces the complexity and stress that comes with subscriptions.

  • Uninterrupted access

Payment plans where Apple Music is paid for a year give users an uninterrupted service with no renewals required. Users don't have to worry about breaks in service and can listen to music consistently. This option is ideal for users wanting uninterrupted access to listening throughout the year.

  • Simplified budgeting

Subscribing for the entire year helps you manage your finances better because you pay at once. This also means that there will be no hidden costs later during the year. Everything is clear, and budgeting is much easier. Getting Apple Music for the year will also ensure no unexpected charges arise during the year.

  • Discounted price for families

The Apple Music family plan for a year gives multiple users access for much less than paying for monthly individual plans. This is beneficial for families and helps them save money. Family members can share the subscribed account and save money in the process.

How to subscribe to Apple Music yearly plan on iPhone

Buying a yearly Apple Music subscription on iPhone or iPad is easy, and you can do it straight from the Music application. It takes only a couple of basic steps for users to have uninterrupted access to millions of songs, playlists, and other exclusive content for a whole year. Here's how you can do it in simple steps:

    STEP 1
  1. Open the music app

Launch the Music application on your device and tap the "For You" section at the bottom. You will be directed to a page with music recommendations catered to your preferences.

    STEP 2
  1. Access your Apple ID

Click your profile icon or photo located on the upper right portion of the screen. If asked, enter the Apple ID and password to sign in after selecting the View Apple ID option.

    STEP 3
  1. Choose your subscription

Choose Subscriptions and then Apple Music Membership options. Select the Individual (1 Year) option and confirm your choice to receive Apple Music for a year.

A quick way to subscribe to Apple Music yearly plan on iPhone

How to get Apple Music for a year on a desktop

Subscribing to Apple Music for a year is not at all complicated. Whether your PC runs on Windows or macOS, the yearly subscription can be set up via iTunes. With just a few easy steps, you'll have access to millions of songs and exclusive content for an entire year. Here's what you need to do to get Apple Music for a year on a desktop:

    STEP 1
  1. Launch iTunes

Start up iTunes on your Windows or macOS computer. Make sure that you are logged in using your Apple ID so that you can manage your account settings and subscriptions.

    STEP 2
  1. Access account settings

Under the menu bar, click on "Account," then "View My Account." To check your options on the settings page, click "Manage" under the Subscriptions section.

    STEP 3
  1. Select your subscription

To modify your subscription, click "Edit" in the Apple Music Subscription box. Then, select the Individual (1 Year) option and confirm your choice so that you can have Apple Music on your desktop for a year.

Showing how to get Apple Music for the year on desktop

Ways to get Apple Music at a discount

There are various ways to get discounts or free trials when signing up to Apple Music.

  • PlayStation 5 offer: 6 free months

If you're a PlayStation 5 owner, you'll be eligible to reap an extremely attractive offer from Apple Music: six free months, simply by downloading and opening the Apple Music app on your PS5. They're offering this deal through November 2024 and only for those who aren't already Apple Music subscribers. This is one of the longest trial offers available, and it's highly appealing for those who play consoles.

PlayStation 5 offer: 6 free months
  • In-store purchase promotion at Walmart: Up to 4 free months

Buying select items at Walmart stores can earn you up to 4 additional months of free Apple Music. If your purchase qualifies, a redemption code will be printed directly on your receipt. Simply visit wmt-offer.com and enter the code to claim your free subscription.

In-store purchase promotion at Walmart
  • Apple device purchases: 3 free months

If you buy a new qualifying Apple device—like an iPhone, iPad, Mac, or AirPods—you can get three months of free Apple Music. Get your new device set up and follow the prompt on your screen, or plug in your qualifying audio device to an Apple device using the current iOS or iPadOS. Redeem your offer within 90 days of setting up your new device.

Three-month free subscription with eligible Apple device purchases
  • Shazam Offer: 2 months free

By checking out Shazam’s promotional page, you can use your phone to scan a QR code in exchange for 2 free months of Apple Music. While intended for new customers, some have found they have been able to get this offer even when they have previously utilized a free trial. It's fast and simple and involves no purchase or obligation.

Shazam Offer: 2 months free
  • American Airlines alliance: 2 months free

American Airlines has a special offer that gives 2 free months of Apple Music through its entertainment portal. Simply visit entertainment.aa.com and complete the redemption process. This offer is usually for new and returning customers, and not for existing Apple Music subscribers. It’s one of the best bonuses if you’re an existing subscriber and you’re thinking of returning for an interim period.

American Airlines alliance
  • App Store top-up bonus: 1-2 months free

One other special offer enables you to earn free Apple Music time when you add funds to an Apple ID. Adding $25 or more to your App Store balance gives you free access to 1–2 months of Apple Music. New customers usually have 2 months, while rejoining (but not current) customers have 1 month. You might see an offer in the App Store in your profile settings.

Showing how to get Apple Music for the year on desktop
  • Free trial for new subscribers: 1 months free

Apple Music provides a free trial, enabling you to use the service and test its features without spending any money for one month.

Showing how to get Apple Music for the year on desktop
  • Apple one bundle

Consider taking out an Apple One subscription, which combines Apple Music along with other Apple services such as Apple TV+, Apple Arcade, and iCloud+ at a reduced combined cost. This can offer savings over purchasing each service for separate subscriptions.

Individual: $19.95/month

Family (up to 6 people): $25.95/month

Premier (adds news+ and fitness+): $37.95/month

Apple one bundle

How to download your favorite songs from Apple Music

If you want to listen to music without the internet, downloading your favorite songs from Apple Music is a good idea. You can easily download your music, whether you're on your phone or desktop, and it lets you bring your music anywhere. Let's discuss how to download songs on Apple Music for mobile devices and desktops.

On the phone

It's effortless to download your favorite songs to Apple Music and enjoy them offline with iPhones or Android devices. As long as you remain subscribed, you can access your downloaded music at any time while traveling or working, including offline, and this feature is available with the yearly Apple Music plan. Here's how to do it easily:

    1
  1. Search for the album or song you wish to download from the Apple Music App.
  2. 2
  3. Tap on the "+" symbol to save it to your library, then hit the download button (a cloud symbol with an arrow).
  4. 3
  5. Go to your library and check that the song has been downloaded. You can now listen offline.
Showing how to save music from Apple Music on a mobile phone

On a desktop

Songs can also be downloaded on your computer through Apple Music, so you can listen to your favorite songs offline. This feature is available for the year with Apple Music. It lets you maintain your music library on your desktop so you can listen while traveling. Follow the steps below to save your favorite music from Apple Music on a desktop:

    1
  1. Launch iTunes or the Apple Music application on your PC and search for a particular song or album that you wish to download.
  2. 2
  3. To add the song to your library, click the "+" icon, then click the download button (cloud icon).
  4. 3
  5. After the download is finished, access it from your library and start listening to your music offline.
Showing how to download songs from Apple Music on a desktop

Bonus tip: Make stunning videos with viral music tracks using CapCut

The CapCut desktop video editor is a versatile tool that has made it easy to edit your video content. It enables you to create visually impressive videos with popular music tracks that assist in perfecting your content. Whether it be a music video, a vlog, or a social media post, CapCut makes it simple to blend in songs from Apple Music.

Note: We respect the copyrights of all creators. Please download songs only through legal means and refrain from using it for commercial purposes without permission or any illegal activities.

Interface of the CapCut desktop video editor - an easy way to add music to video content

Key features

CapCut has a range of features that can elevate your video creation experience. Here are the key features and their usage scenarios:

  • Auto vocal enhancement

Automatically improves voice quality with AI voice enhancer, making it clearer and more professional for videos or voiceovers. This is perfect for improving audio in tutorials or vlogs.

  • Versatile voice characters

Use CapCut's AI voice changer to explore various AI voices and characters, which are ideal for creating engaging voiceovers or narrations for video projects.

  • Efficient voice changers

It lets you alter the pitch and tone of voice, giving you flexibility in creating unique characters for your videos. It's useful for adding humor or creativity to storytelling.

  • Library of royalty-free music

Access a vast library of music tracks that are free to use in your videos, making it easier to add background music without copyright concerns.

  • Export audio in various formats

Export your audio in different file formats to ensure compatibility with various platforms and devices. This feature is perfect for creators who need to share audio across different channels.

How to add popular songs to videos with CapCut

To get CapCut on your device, click the download button provided below. The installation prompts will guide you on correctly setting up the software on your desktop, enabling you to create videos seamlessly.

    STEP 1
  1. Import the video

Launch the CapCut desktop video editor and add your video by clicking "Import" or simply dragging and dropping it into the workspace. After that, move it to the timeline to begin editing

Importing a video into the CapCut desktop video editor
    STEP 2
  1. Add and enhance the music

Go to the "Music" tab to explore a variety of songs. Select the one you like, download it, and add it to your video by clicking the "+" icon. Adjust the audio levels and add sound effects as needed. You can also translate songs from one language to another by using the "Audio translator" and apply AI voice filters and characters using the "Voice changer" for a unique touch.

Adding and enhancing music in videos with the CapCut desktop video editor
    STEP 3
  1. Export and share

After editing your music video, click "Export" and choose the resolution, format, and bit rate. Then, click "Export" again to save it to your PC, or use "Share" to upload it directly to social media like TikTok and YouTube.

Exporting a video from the CapCut desktop video editor

Conclusion

To sum it up, subscribing to Apple Music for a year enables you to listen to your favorite tracks without any interruptions. You can subscribe as an individual, a family, or even as a student. It caters to your needs and grants you access to millions of songs, content, and exclusives throughout the entire year. However, you can use tools like the CapCut desktop video editor to add some viral music to your videos and enhance your content.

FAQs

    1
  1. Does the Apple Music yearly plan support lossless and spatial audio?

Yes, the Apple Music yearly plan includes lossless and spatial audio at no extra cost. You enjoy high-quality sound for a more immersive listening experience for supported devices. These features enhance audio quality and are even more beneficial for those who appreciate good sound. To use these songs in your videos, explore the advanced AI tools in the CapCut desktop video editor.

    2
  1. Is Apple Music for the year plan refundable if canceled early?

The Apple Music for the year is mostly non-refundable with an early termination. Subscriptions do not give refunds on the remaining balance, thus cancellation will not refund the rest of the months left in the plan. Still, you are free to cancel whenever you want to stop further payments and avoid subscription. Moreover, to add, edit and enhance your songs in videos for free, consider using CapCut.

    3
  1. How does renewal work for the Apple Music yearly subscription plan?

Apple Music yearly subscription will renew automatically at the start of a new subscription year unless canceled prior to the renewal date. At the time of renewal for the subscription, you will be billed for the subsequent year's fee. This can be managed through the account settings. After getting viral songs from Apple Music, add them to your videos to standout with the CapCut desktop video editor.