While iOS includes a built-in Apple Music app, several third-party applications enhance the experience for subscribers to Apple’s streaming service. If you’re subscribed to Apple Music and are eager to optimize your enjoyment of your music library, explore these top iOS apps that integrate seamlessly with Apple Music.
SongCapsule
Rather than functioning as merely an alternative player for Apple Music, SongCapsule (formerly Next DJ) offers features aimed at helping you rediscover your existing music collection. The app employs algorithms to create intelligent playlists and “Magic DJs,” featuring a blend of tracks from your preferred artists and musical styles.
While discovering new music is enjoyable, sometimes we overlook fantastic tracks in our libraries. One standout feature of SongCapsule is its Forgotten Songs playlist, which curates all your beloved past hits in one convenient spot.
Additionally, you’ll discover other smart playlists showcasing your most-played tracks from specific artists and genres, as well as a playlist of songs you’ve added to your library but never listened to. These playlists are automatically generated based on your Apple Music usage data and refresh each time you launch the app.
You can download SongCapsule from the App Store for a one-time fee of $4.99. The app is compatible with iPhone, iPad, and Mac.
SongCapsule Quiz
Created by the same team behind SongCapsule, SongCapsule Quiz is a game inspired by the iPod’s Music Quiz but revamped with a modern twist suited for today’s streaming environment. As the title indicates, players must guess the title of the song that plays.
When you feel ready to play, simply tap Start Quiz, and the game will begin to play songs. To heighten the challenge, you can earn up to 1,000 points in each round. The quicker you identify the right song, the more points you amass. The game displays all the songs you guessed correctly along with their scores, as well as any incorrect guesses.
You can share your score with friends on social media networks. Additionally, the game integrates with Apple’s Game Center.
SongCapsule Quiz is available on the App Store. You can try it for free, with a Deluxe option available via a subscription or one-time purchase.
Marvis
If you are an Apple Music subscriber but find the official Music app unsatisfactory, Marvis is a superb alternative. It provides all the features necessary to navigate your music library, including the ability to browse by albums, playlists, genres, and more.
The app’s home screen is customizable, allowing you to display only the sections you value. Options include Recently Played tracks, Most Played songs, Favorite songs, Top Charts, New Releases, Radio Stations, and more, making your home experience unique.
Moreover, Marvis features an accessible side menu that activates via gestures, perfect for single-handed operation. It also boasts an intuitive interface that works seamlessly in both portrait and landscape orientations.
Marvis can be purchased from the App Store for $9.99 as a one-time fee, with an additional Last.fm integration available via a $5.99 in-app purchase. The app is designed for iPhone and iPad use.
Soor
Apart from your local music sections for albums and playlists, you can include sections such as For You, New Songs, and Hot Tracks directly from Apple Music. With its Magic Mix feature, you can create playlists akin to Genius playlists, tailored by filters for artists, albums, genres, composers, play count, and more.
The app also includes a variety of widgets for iOS home screens, allowing you to tailor your iPhone while providing quick access to your favorite tracks. Available widgets include Now Playing, Magic Mix, and Music Collection, along with a Cover Flow feature.
Soor can be downloaded from the App Store for $6.99 as a one-time purchase and is compatible with both iPhone and iPad. Be sure to check out the complete Soor review available on DMN.
MusicHarbor
While Apple Music lacks a feature to follow favorite artists and keep up with their latest albums and songs, MusicHarbor fulfills this need. Designed for users who are intentional about who they follow, MusicHarbor streamlines tracking your favorite artists’ releases.
To use it, open the app, search for your favorite artists, and start following them—MusicHarbor takes it from there. The app displays a list of all albums released by artists you follow and highlights any upcoming singles or video releases. You can enable push notifications to stay updated on new songs from your followed artists.
Additionally, MusicHarbor provides a button linking you to a webpage with the latest news about the artist and a dedicated tab listing upcoming concerts. The app also supports widgets, iCloud data synchronization, and multiple theme options.
You can try MusicHarbor for free on the App Store; however, some features require in-app purchases to unlock. It works flawlessly on iPhone, iPad, and Mac.
Longplay
Longplay is an intriguing app that was launched this year, specifically designed for users looking to rediscover their music libraries. Unlike other apps on this list, Longplay focuses on exploring full albums and playlists that you’ve added—excluding those where you’ve only included select songs from Apple Music.
Upon launching the app, you’ll see only your albums and playlists’ artwork. You can rearrange the app view by focusing exclusively on albums or playlists, or apply one of the built-in “Sort by” options. The interface is straightforward—just select an album or playlist and enjoy your music.
By long-pressing albums, Longplay offers options to play them in shuffle mode or utilize AirPlay. This app can be a delightful experience, and it’s recommended for Apple Music users.
Longplay is available on the App Store for $5.99 as a one-time purchase and supports iPhone, iPad, and Apple Vision Pro.
NowPlaying
NowPlaying provides insights into the stories behind the songs and albums you are listening to. The app displays essential details, such as the album’s release date, chart rankings, and even the number of versions of the album available, everything presented in an appealing interface.
Recently, the team has introduced a version of NowPlaying specifically for Apple TV, designed to emphasize albums and encourage users to enjoy music as “complete works rather than isolated tracks.”
The NowPlaying app is also available for iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and Apple Vision Pro. It can be tested for free, though a Gold version unlocks additional features through in-app purchases.
Wrap-up
These applications can dramatically enhance your Apple Music experience, whether you choose to replace the official Music app or rediscover hidden gems in your library.
It’s important to note that while these apps provide the greatest functionality with an Apple Music subscription, they also support songs purchased from the iTunes Store or synchronized from your computer to the Music app.
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