How to Play Apple Music on Linux

[Annie Yazbeck]

Linux users often face challenges when it comes to accessing popular streaming services like Apple Music, which lacks an official Linux app. However, there are several workarounds that allow you to stream, manage, and enjoy your Apple Music library on Linux without any hassle. Here are the best methods to download and play Apple Music on Linux:

1. Using the Apple Music Web Player
The simplest way to access Apple Music on Linux is through its web player. Apple provides a browser-based version of its streaming service, which is compatible with all major browsers, including Chrome, Firefox, and Brave on Linux.
Steps to Use Apple Music Web Player on Linux:
• Open your preferred web browser.
• Navigate to music.apple.com.
• Log in with your Apple ID to access your music library and stream Apple Music directly.
This method doesn’t require any additional installation, making it a convenient option for Linux users who prefer a hassle-free solution.
2. Via Cider (Third-party App)
Cider is an open-source, cross-platform app designed to provide a better Apple Music experience on platforms like Linux. It offers features such as offline playback, media keys support, and an improved user interface. Cider leverages the Apple Music API and can be easily installed on Linux systems.
Steps to Install Cider on Linux:
• First, ensure you have Node.js installed on your system.
• Open the terminal and run the following commands:
bash
Copy code:
git clone https://github.com/ciderapp/Cider.git
cd Cider
npm install
npm start
With Cider, you get a more polished app experience tailored for Linux users, along with extra customization options that the web player doesn’t provide.
3. Using DRmare Apple Music Converter to Play Offline
For users who want to listen to Apple Music offline on Linux, using DRmare Apple Music Converter is an effective method. Although this tool runs on macOS and Windows, you can convert Apple Music tracks and transfer them to Linux.
Steps to Convert Apple Music for Linux with DRmare Apple Music Converter:
• Install DRmare Apple Music Converter on a macOS or Windows machine.
• Launch the software and add Apple Music songs to the main interface.
• Click the Convert button, this software will convert them to MP3, WAV, or FLAC formats.
• Transfer the converted songs to your Linux system and play them using any media player of your choice.
This option is great for users who want to play Apple Music tracks offline without worrying about the streaming limitations on Linux.
Conclusion
Although there is no official Apple Music app for Linux, these workarounds offer multiple ways to stream and enjoy your favorite Apple Music tracks on your Linux machine. Whether you prefer the simplicity of the web player, the features of third-party apps like Cider, or offline playback solutions, Linux users have plenty of options to choose from. Pick the method that best suits your workflow, and listen to Apple Music on Linux without limitations.