**Apple Collaborates with TuneIn to Broaden Access to Apple Music Radio Stations**
In a strategic effort to improve its subscription service, Apple has joined forces with TuneIn to allow its free Apple Music radio stations to be available outside of the Apple Music app for the first time. This initiative is aimed at drawing in a wider audience and potentially turning TuneIn users into Apple Music subscribers.
According to the Wall Street Journal, all six of Apple’s live music radio stations are now available on TuneIn, which has over 75 million active users each month across multiple platforms and devices. This collaboration signifies a significant change in how Apple shares its radio content, enabling listeners to enjoy the stations without having to go through the Apple Music app.
Live radio has been a fundamental aspect of Apple Music since it started in 2015, with the launch of Beats 1, hosted by Zane Lowe among others. In 2020, Beats 1 was renamed as Apple Music 1, and Lowe continues to lead a popular show on the station. Currently, Apple features six live stations: Apple Music 1, Apple Music Hits, Apple Music Country, Apple Musica Uno, Apple Music Club, and Apple Music Club, with the last three being recent additions.
Before this collaboration, users needed to access these stations via the Radio tab in the Apple Music app. The partnership with TuneIn greatly expands the availability of these stations, allowing streaming on various devices, including smart speakers and mobile applications.
While TuneIn users can listen to these radio channels for free and without commercials, Apple Music will still be highlighted through call-to-action links within the TuneIn app and website. This approach is intended to encourage listeners to discover the complete Apple Music experience, which includes algorithmically-powered stations exclusive to subscribers.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Apple and TuneIn signifies a strategic attempt by Apple to regain a competitive edge in the music streaming market, particularly against competitors like Spotify. By making its live radio stations more widely accessible, Apple aims to attract new listeners and convert them into paying subscribers for its extensive music service.
