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How to Add My Own Audio Files to Apple Music? (MP3)

As an owner of an Apple device, I know the frustration of wanting to add my own audio files to Apple Music. After much trial and error, I’m here to share how I solved the problem and some other solutions I discovered along the way. In this blog post, I will explain the steps to add your own audio files in the form of MP3s to Apple Music.

MethodRequirementsSteps
Using AirDropTwo iDevices1. Unlock both devices and enable AirDrop.
2. Launch the Apple Music app on the device with the music.
3. Find and play the desired song.
4. Click on the three dots to open the advanced menu.
5. Tap on the Share function.
6. Choose AirDrop from the list of options.
7. Follow the instructions to connect with the other device.
Using MacMac device, Apple Music app1. Launch the Music app from your Mac Dock.
2. On the top left, find the File menu.
3. Find the Import function.
4. Navigate your system to find the audio file you wish to copy.
5. Click on the Open function to add the files to your library.
6. Return to the File menu.
7. Go to the Update Cloud Library option.
Using WindowsWindows device, iTunes app1. Find and download the audio file.
2. Convert your file to MP3 format.
3. Launch the iTunes app.
4. On the top left, click on the File menu.
5. Navigate to the “Add File to Library” option.
6. Click on the browse button and find the file in your system.
7. Open the file in iTunes.
8. Reopen the File menu.
9. Go to the Library page.
10. Find the “Update iCloud Music Library Option.”
11. Sync all of your devices.

Copying Files to an iDevice

One of the biggest issues with using any iDevice is copying files because iOs is notorious for its privacy settings. Unfortunately, these features mean you can’t move files directly without a medium, like AirDrop or email.

Still, both these functions need another gadget that contains the folder you want to copy. So, depending on what tools you’re using, the copying method will be a little different.

How to Add Music Using AirDrop?

As an iPhone user, you’re probably already familiar with the AirDrop function. It’s a useful and practical tool. However, it does have its limitations.

For example, when you share music via AirDrop, you can only send a link to the song. This means that you can only access the file if both devices have active Apple Music accounts.

If this sounds doable, then follow these steps to add your music files.

  1. Unlock both phones and enable the AirDrop feature.
  2. Launch the Apple Music app on the device with the music.
  3. Find and play the song you wish to copy.
  4. Click on the three dots to open the advanced menu.
  5. Tap on the Share function.
  6. Choose the AirDrop feature from the list of options.
  7. Follow the instructions to connect with the other device.

This process is simple, but it’s not always efficient. Sometimes, the music you want may not be in the Apple app at all.

How to Add Music Using Mac

If you’re an iPhone user, chances are you also prefer Mac. For starters, they’re both compatible, so you can get a lot done in less time.

One example is that, with a Mac laptop, you can use the Music app to add audio files to Apple Music. Before you start this process, make sure both devices have been updated with the latest software.

Otherwise, if the software is outdated, you may face connection issues.

Once you’ve got that settled, follow these steps:

  1. Launch the Music app from your Mac Dock.
  2. On the top left, you’ll find the File menu.
  3. Find the Import function.
  4. Navigate your system to find the audio file you wish to copy.
  5. Click on the Open function to add the files to your library.
  6. Return to the File menu.
  7. Go to the Update Cloud Library option.

This process is straightforward and shouldn’t take more than a few minutes to complete. Still, if it’s taking too long to browse through your folder to find the audio file, you can simply copy it.

In other words, instead of using the import function, just drag the audio file into the Music app.

Keep in mind that it may take a minute for the syncing to take effect. If this happens, try restarting your device and check again.

How to Add Music Using Windows

Read more: Why won’t my Apple Music open?

If you have a laptop or PC that runs on Windows, you’re in luck. You can use these devices to easily add audio files to Apple Music.

However, you’ll need to install iTunes first before you can use the copying function. Without it, your device won’t be able to connect to your iPhone.

Then, once you have iTunes set up, you can follow these steps.

  1. Find and download the audio file.
  2. Convert your file to MP3 format.
  3. Launch the iTunes app.
  4. On the top left, click on the File menu.
  5. Navigate to the “Add File to Library” option
  6. Click on the browse button and find the file in your system.
  7. Open the file in iTunes.
  8. Reopen the File menu.
  9. Go to the Library page.
  10. Find the “Update iCloud Music Library Option.”
  11. Sync all of your devices.

After you finish the steps, you should find the audio file in your Apple Music Library. 

It’s easier to copy an MP3 file than other file formats. So, if the audio file is in another format, there’s a slight chance it might work. Why risk it? Convert it to MP3 right from the start to ensure the audio works.

The best thing about this method is that you can use the syncing function. This gives access to all devices connected to iCloud to all audio files.

Wrapping Up

Read more: Why won’t my Apple Music playlist update?

Now, when one of your friends asks, “Do you know how to add my own audio files to Apple Music?” you can explain it to them in detail.

Tell your friend that the most common way to do it is by using AirDrop. Yet, it’s not practical because it only allows you to share audio links. Other options include the Music app on a Mac device or iTunes on Windows.

So, good luck adding music, and happy listening!