Apple services have historically ventured beyond their exclusive ecosystem, with the iPod and iTunes initially compatible with Windows PCs as well as Macs. This trend continues with Apple Music, which has expanded its reach to platforms such as Android, Windows, Google TV, and ChromeOS. Additionally, a web app for Apple Music is now accessible on virtually any device, enhancing its versatility.
Having been an admirer of Apple Music since its inception as Beats Music, I have witnessed its evolution into a robust streaming service. The introduction of features like Dolby Atmos and lossless audio support, all while maintaining competitive pricing, has solidified its appeal. Although Spotify and YouTube Music previously held the upper hand for Android users, the scales are tipping in favor of Apple Music.
While some may still consider alternatives like Tidal or Amazon Music Unlimited, both of which offer quality services, Apple Music’s growing reputation makes it a formidable contender. The recent price increase across all subscription tiers, raising costs by a dollar or more, has made Spotify one of the pricier options in the streaming landscape. Its individual plan now costs two dollars more than Apple Music and YouTube Music, while Amazon Music Unlimited remains a dollar cheaper for all users and two dollars cheaper for Prime members. Although these differences may seem minor, they accumulate over time.
Spotify’s strength lies in its sophisticated algorithms and personalized recommendations, along with engaging social features like the popular Spotify Wrapped experience. However, these extras can be a double-edged sword. While they enhance user experience, they also contribute to app bloat, leading to frustration over unnecessary features that inflate subscription costs.
What about YouTube Music?
If Spotify is not the right fit, YouTube Music emerges as a viable alternative for Android users. Bundled with YouTube Premium at .99 per month, it offers a compelling value proposition. However, subscribing to YouTube Music Premium individually for .99 may not provide the same allure. While it serves as an excellent complement to YouTube Premium, it struggles to stand alone.
Critics of Spotify’s clutter may find YouTube Music even more overwhelming, as it has become Google’s primary distribution channel for podcasts, adding to the app’s complexity. The inclusion of audiobooks further diversifies its offerings but can also distract from its core music service. Additionally, YouTube Music’s recent experiments with artificial intelligence, such as AI-generated backgrounds for lyric cards, may not resonate with music purists.
In terms of audio quality, YouTube Music’s support for up to 256kbps AAC or Opus falls short of expectations, especially in the absence of Dolby Atmos. For those already inclined to subscribe to YouTube Premium, YouTube Music Premium is a valuable addition. However, until its sound quality and music features improve, it may not warrant a standalone subscription.
Apple Music shines, even on Android
Apple Music stands out as a fully featured, user-friendly music streaming app for Android users. Priced at .99 per month, it offers high-resolution, lossless audio up to 24-bit/192 kbps, surpassing Spotify in quality. With Dolby Atmos support, users can choose between lossless or immersive audio formats, catering to diverse listening preferences.
The app is designed with Android users in mind, incorporating essential features such as Google Cast. Unlike other platforms, Apple Music remains focused solely on music, free from the distractions of podcasts or audiobooks. Users can enjoy a wealth of customization options, including the ability to manage animations, lyrics, listening history, volume normalization, crossfade, and audio quality.
Moreover, Apple Music allows users to import libraries from various services, including YouTube Music, Spotify, Amazon Music, Deezer, and Tidal. This flexibility alleviates concerns for those hesitant to switch due to fears of losing their music collections.
As a loyal Apple Music user for a decade, I find it hard to envision switching to another service. While it may not be the ultimate choice for everyone, it undeniably offers superior music quality and features for its price point. If you have avoided Apple Music due to its association with Apple, you might be overlooking a remarkable streaming experience.
A steal—Apple Music provides high-resolution lossless audio, Dolby Atmos support, and more, all for the same price as YouTube Music and two dollars less than Spotify per month. Its compatibility across Android, Windows, and the web makes it a strong contender, even for those outside the Apple ecosystem.
