Apple Music is Apple's official music streaming service, launched in 2015. Its catalog includes more than 100 million songs, it is available in 167 countries and regions, and it is one of today's leading music streaming platforms.
In July 2026, Apple raised its subscription prices: the Individual plan increased from $10.99 to $11.99 per month, while the Family plan rose from $16.99 to $19.99, an increase of nearly 18%. Listening to music now costs us more.
To help, this article brings together 13 Apple Music free-trial and discount options that still work, with free access lasting from one to six months, so we can effectively reduce the cost of digital music.
The most direct option is to buy Apple Music through the GamsGo marketplace. Visit the Apple One accounts page to learn more!
Quick Guide: 10 Methods Covered
These 10 options cover shared subscriptions, official trials, device offers, carrier perks, and student discounts, allowing you to quickly narrow them down based on your location and eligibility.
- GamsGo shared subscription: Buy an open seat on another user's Apple Music Family plan without having to find people to share the subscription with yourself.
- Official Apple Music trial: Eligible new subscribers can use Apple Music free for one month, with one trial allowed per person or family.
- Purchase an eligible Apple device: New subscribers who buy and activate a qualifying iPhone, Mac, AirPods, Beats product, or other eligible device can receive a three-month free trial.
- Verizon Unlimited plan: Eligible users in the United States can receive a six-month free trial, while some current plans also offer a discounted Family subscription.
- EE mobile plan: Eligible UK contract customers can claim a free trial lasting up to six months, while some plans include Apple One directly.
- Shazam promotion: Claim up to three months free through the Shazam app or promotional page; the exact duration depends on your region and subscription history.
- djay app offer: Connect your Apple Music account in djay to claim up to two months free, subject to the terms shown in the app.
- iD Mobile offer: Purchase a phone or SIM plan from iD Mobile in the UK to receive a free trial lasting up to two months.
- Apple Authorized Reseller promotions: Retailers such as iSTYLE and K-tuin in parts of Europe and the Middle East provide access to an official three-month trial.
- Apple Music Student plan: After verifying your student status, you can subscribe for $6.99 per month for up to 48 months.
Apple Music Pricing in 2026
Apple Music currently offers three standalone subscription plans—Individual, Family, and Student—along with Apple One, which bundles Apple Music with other services. The four options differ in monthly price, number of users, and additional benefits. The table below compares the current US plans.
| Plan | Monthly Price | Number of Users | What's Included | Eligibility Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Individual | $11.99 | 1 person | Full music catalog, lossless and Spatial Audio, offline downloads | None |
| Family | $19.99 | Up to 6 people | All Individual features, with a separate library and recommendations for each member | Family Sharing must be enabled |
| Student | $6.99 | 1 person | All Individual features, plus access to Apple TV+ | Student status must be verified through UNiDAYS |
| Apple One (Individual) | $19.95 | 1 person | Apple Music bundled with Apple TV+, Arcade, and iCloud+ | None |
| Apple One (Family) | $27.95 | Up to 6 people | Same as above, shareable with family members | Family Sharing must be enabled |
| Apple One (Premier) | $39.95 | Up to 6 people | Same as above, plus News+, Fitness+, and more iCloud+ storage | Family Sharing must be enabled |
Understanding exactly what each plan includes makes it easier to decide which money-saving option is right for you. The free trials are covered below; if you prefer a bundled subscription, you can also explore ways to get Apple One for free.
How to Get Apple Music for Free?
Buy Apple Music on GamsGo
The methods covered later all come with eligibility or regional restrictions. That is why we will start with an option that works for most people—buying a cheap Apple Music account through a subscription-sharing platform.
As everyone knows, the per-person cost of an Apple Music Family plan is much lower. However, if you do not know enough people who need Apple Music, you can buy an open seat listed by another user on GamsGo. This saves money and removes the hassle of finding people to split the plan with.
The GamsGo marketplace has multiple verified sellers offering open Apple Music seats, usually for flexible subscription periods of one to three months. GamsGo also provides payment protection: funds are released to the seller only after you have received the service, making it a safer option.
Similar ways of splitting the cost of a Family plan are available on other music platforms. If you also use Spotify, see how to share Spotify Premium to learn about the member requirements and cost-sharing options for its Duo and Family plans.
Official Apple Music Free Trial (1 Month)
Apple officially offers new subscribers a one-month free trial. You can sign in to your Apple Account in the Apple Music app or at music.apple.com, select a plan, and subscribe with a valid payment method. Under Apple's official terms, each person or family may use the trial only once.
When the trial ends, it automatically renews at the standard price of your chosen plan. The Individual plan costs $11.99 per month. If you do not want to continue, you must cancel manually at least one day before the trial expires. Users who have previously subscribed to Apple Music are generally no longer eligible, but they may still be able to receive a longer free period through the device and carrier promotions covered below.
Free Trial with Eligible Apple Device Purchase (3 Months)
Buying an eligible Apple device gives you three months of Apple Music free. Qualifying products include iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, Apple Watch, AirPods models, HomePod models, and Beats headphones and speakers. Beats Flex is excluded.
The offer is available only to new subscribers and must be redeemed within 90 days of activating the device. Each Apple ID may claim it only once, regardless of how many eligible devices you purchase. Audio accessories such as AirPods and Beats products must first be paired with an Apple device running the latest operating system before the offer can be redeemed.
The subscription also renews automatically at $11.99 per month after the trial and must be canceled manually before it expires. Note that this offer previously lasted six months, but Apple's current official terms have reduced it to three months. Many online references to “six months” are outdated.
Apple Music via Verizon Unlimited Plans (6 Months Free)
Verizon is one of the leading mobile carriers in the United States. Its Apple Music benefits fall into two categories: some older Unlimited plans provide six months free, while the current myPlan lineup offers a paid Apple Music Family benefit at a lower price than Apple charges directly. The details are shown below.
| Verizon Plan | Apple Music Benefit | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5G Get More | Apple Music included with the plan | While the plan remains active | Included in the plan price |
| 5G Start / 5G Play More / 5G Do More | Eligible for free Apple Music | 6 months | Converts to a paid subscription after the free period |
| Welcome Unlimited | Eligible for free Apple Music | 6 months | Converts to a paid subscription after the free period |
| myPlan (Simplicity, Unlimited Ultimate, Unlimited Plus, Unlimited Welcome) | Apple Music Family perk | Available as an ongoing option | $10/month, increasing to $13/month on September 1, 2026 |
The free benefit must be activated through the My Verizon app or website under “Products & plan perks.” Each eligible line can claim it separately, and a confirmation text message should arrive within about 24 hours of registration. Only the account owner or an account manager can complete the process.
After six months, the benefit automatically converts to a paid subscription and must be canceled manually if you do not want to continue. For users in New Mexico, the subscription ends automatically when the free period expires. Family perk users must activate the benefit within 90 days of purchase, or it will be canceled automatically. This offer is limited to Verizon users in the United States, so check the current terms on Verizon's official website before signing up.
Apple Music via EE in the UK (6 Months Free)
EE is one of the UK's leading mobile carriers and is part of the BT Group. Its Apple Music benefits vary by plan, ranging from six months free to Apple services included directly with the plan. The details are shown below.
| EE Plan Type | Apple Music Benefit | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pay monthly or SIM only (minimum 12-month contract) | Free Apple Music, with streaming data excluded from your allowance during the offer | 6 months | Converts to a paid subscription after the free period |
| Full Works (iPhone plan) | Includes Apple One Individual with Apple Music, Apple TV+, Apple Arcade, and 50GB of iCloud+ | While the plan remains active | Included in the plan price |
| All Rounder | Apple One available as an Inclusive Extra | While the plan remains active | An additional £5/month |
| Monthly rolling contract | Apple Music trial add-on available | 3 months | Converts to a paid subscription after the free period |
There are two ways to claim the offer: text “MUSIC” to 150, or sign in to your EE online account and add it from the add-ons section under “Plan & Add-ons” in the EE app. Both new and existing customers can apply, but users who have previously claimed the promotion cannot claim it again.
The trial converts to a paid subscription when the free period ends. You can cancel at any time by texting “STOP MUSIC” to 150. 4G WiFi plans, tablet plans, and business plans are excluded. This benefit is available only to EE users in the UK, and plan terms can change at any time, so check the latest details on EE's official website before claiming it.
Apple Music via Shazam (1–3 Months Free)
Shazam is Apple's music-recognition app, acquired by the company in 2018. Subscribing to Apple Music through its in-app entry point can provide a longer trial than Apple's standard offer: up to three months for new subscribers and up to two months for existing or returning subscribers.
There are two ways to claim the offer. In the Shazam app, go to the My Music tab, tap the Settings icon, select Apple Music under Streaming, and tap “Try It Free.” Alternatively, scan the QR code on Shazam's promotional page and redeem the offer on your phone.
The actual duration varies by region and current promotion, so the terms shown in the app take precedence. Eligibility depends on your location and previous Apple Music subscription history, and the same Apple ID generally cannot claim the offer more than once. The subscription renews automatically at the standard price after the trial, so cancel it in advance if you do not want to continue.
Apple Music via DJay App (2 Months Free)
djay is a DJ mixing app developed by Algoriddim for iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Vision Pro, Windows, and Android. The app integrates with Apple Music, and users who download djay and connect their accounts can receive up to two months of Apple Music free.
To claim the offer, connect your Apple Music account in djay and follow the in-app prompts. The official terms state that the offer is subject to the conditions shown in the app, with no standard redemption steps or deadline published. The exact duration and eligibility are therefore determined by what appears in the app.
Once connected, you can use Apple Music's complete catalog of more than 100 million songs directly in djay for mixing. The integration is currently available in 167 countries and regions. The subscription renews automatically at the standard price after the trial, so cancel it in advance if you do not want to continue.
Apple Music via ID Mobile in the UK (2 Months Free)
iD Mobile is a UK mobile virtual network operator owned by the Currys Group. Customers who purchase a phone or SIM plan through iD Mobile can claim Apple service offers, including Apple Music, with different trial lengths for new and existing subscribers.
| Apple Service | New Subscribers | Existing Subscribers |
|---|---|---|
| Apple Music | 2 months | 1 month |
| Apple Arcade | 2 months | 1 month |
| Apple Fitness+ | 2 months | 1 month |
The offer is available to customers aged 13 or over throughout the UK and covers purchases of all iPhone and Android models as well as SIMO plans. To claim it, click the promotional banner on the order confirmation page, in the order confirmation email, or in the iD email sent on the 12th day after purchase, then follow the email instructions to redeem it within 90 days.
Users who already subscribe to the relevant service are not eligible. The promotion applies to qualifying orders placed on or after November 21, 2025, and continues until further notice. The subscription renews automatically at the standard price after the trial, so cancel it in advance if you do not want to continue.
Apple Music via ISTYLE Retailers (3 Months Free)
Outside the United States and the UK, Apple Authorized Resellers are often a practical way to access free trials. Examples include iSTYLE, which operates across Central and Eastern Europe and the Middle East, and Spain's K-tuin. Their local websites provide redemption links for three-month Apple Music trials.
To claim the offer, click “Try it free” on the Apple Music page of the reseller's local website. You will be redirected to music.apple.com, where you can sign in with your Apple Account and subscribe. Some stores may also include Apple service offers when selling devices such as an iPhone or Mac.
Keep in mind that these links still use Apple's official trial eligibility. The same Apple ID cannot combine this trial with another Apple Music trial. Renewal prices are charged in the local currency—for example, AED 19.99 per month in the UAE. The exact duration and terms shown on the local page take precedence.
Apple Music Student Plan ($6.99/Month)
The Student plan costs $6.99 per month, about 42% less than the $11.99 Individual plan. It is available to students enrolled in an associate, bachelor's, postgraduate, or equivalent higher-education program. The discounted rate can be used for up to 48 months, saving approximately $240 over four years.
Student status is verified through third-party services such as SheerID and UNiDAYS, and you may need to provide a student ID and academic email address. You must verify your status again each year, with Apple sending a reminder by email. If you do not complete reverification in time, the subscription automatically switches to the standard Individual plan.
The Student subscription currently includes access to Apple TV+ content, although Apple labels this as a limited-time benefit rather than a permanent feature. The plan also starts with a one-month free trial and renews at the discounted rate of $6.99 after the trial ends.
Which Apple Music Free Option is Best for You?
With so many free and discounted options available, the right choice depends on your location, eligibility, and how long you plan to use the service. The table below summarizes the key differences for quick comparison.
| Method | Free Period / Price | Availability | Main Restrictions | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GamsGo marketplace | 1–3 months; price varies by seller and subscription length | Most countries and regions | Not free; availability, price, and usage method depend on the listing | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Official free trial | 1 month | Worldwide | New subscribers only; one trial per person or family | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Eligible Apple device purchase | 3 months | Worldwide | New subscribers only; redeem within 90 days of device activation | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Verizon Unlimited plan | 6 months | United States | Requires an older Unlimited plan; myPlan provides a paid benefit | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| EE mobile plan | 6 months | United Kingdom | Requires a pay-monthly or SIM-only contract of at least 12 months | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Shazam app | Up to 3 months | Varies by region | Duration varies by current promotion; check the offer shown in the app | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| djay app | Up to 2 months | Worldwide | Subject to in-app terms; no fixed rules published by the provider | ⭐⭐ |
| iD Mobile | 2 months | United Kingdom | Requires a phone or SIM purchase; redeem within 90 days | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Authorized Reseller offer | 3 months | Europe, the Middle East, and other regions | Uses Apple's official trial eligibility and cannot be combined with other trials | ⭐⭐ |
| Student plan | $6.99/month for up to 48 months | Worldwide | Student status required, with annual reverification | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Here are our recommendations for different needs:
- For a short trial: Start with Apple's official one-month trial. If you recently purchased an iPhone, AirPods, or another eligible device, claim the three-month device offer first. The two cannot be combined.
- For users in the United States: Check My Verizon first to see whether your plan qualifies for six months free. If you use a current myPlan plan, the paid Apple Music Family perk still costs about 35% less than Apple's official Family plan.
- For users in the United Kingdom: EE's six-month free offer provides the longest trial, and Apple Music streaming does not count against your data allowance. If you do not use EE, you can receive two months through an eligible iD Mobile purchase.
- For students: The Student plan is the cheapest long-term option. The $6.99 monthly rate lasts for up to 48 months, saving about $240 over four years, and currently includes limited-time access to Apple TV+.
- For users outside the United States and the UK: Check the official pages of local Apple Authorized Resellers such as iSTYLE and K-tuin first. Their prices and terms are generally listed in the local currency.
If you do not qualify for the free trials above, or want to keep reducing your subscription cost after a trial ends, GamsGo is a more widely accessible option. It does not require you to purchase a particular device, sign up for a carrier plan, or verify student status. You can choose an open Apple Music Family seat for one to three months based on your needs. Payment is held by the platform and released to the seller only after the service is confirmed, saving you the trouble of finding people to share a plan with and reducing the fulfillment risks of dealing privately with strangers.
Is Apple Music Worth It?
Although Apple Music does not offer a free tier, it is highly competitive in terms of features when you compare Apple Music with Spotify: one subscription includes high-resolution audio, a dedicated classical music app, and multiple advanced playback features, with no extra charge for any individual feature. Overall, it is still well worth considering. For a broader price comparison, see Spotify Premium prices and plans.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Catalog Size | More than 100 million songs, available in 167 countries and regions |
| Lossless and Hi-Res Audio | Supports lossless and Hi-Res Lossless up to 24-bit/192kHz, included with the subscription |
| Spatial Audio | Supports Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos at no extra cost |
| Apple Music Classical | Dedicated classical music app with more than 5 million tracks, included with the subscription |
| Lyrics Features | Apple Music Sing karaoke, real-time lyric translation, and pronunciation guides |
| AutoMix | Creates seamless DJ-style transitions using beat matching and time stretching |
| Content Organization | Pin up to six favorite items and organize playlists into folders |
| Ad-Free Listening | All subscription plans provide uninterrupted, ad-free playback |
| Cross-Platform Support | Available on iOS, macOS, Android, Windows, the web, CarPlay, and HomePod |
The numbers make the value clearer: the $11.99-per-month Individual plan includes lossless audio up to 24-bit/192kHz, Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos, Apple Music Classical with more than 5 million tracks, and completely ad-free listening. When the Family plan is split among six people, the cost comes to about $3.33 per person, giving it a clear long-term cost advantage.
Apple Music is especially worthwhile for Apple device users, listeners who care about audio quality, and households that can share a plan. Because the standard trial lasts only one month, it is best to start with one of the free options above and experience the service at no cost for longer before committing to a long-term subscription.
Conclusion
Apple Music does not offer a permanently free subscription, but its official trial, device offers, carrier benefits, and student discount can still significantly reduce the cost. For a short trial, start with the official offer or the free period included with a new device. Eligible students and carrier customers are better suited to longer-term discounts. Before claiming any promotion, always check its regional availability, account eligibility, and automatic renewal date.
If you do not qualify for these promotions and do not want to pay the full official price over the long term, consider the GamsGo marketplace. It offers open Apple Music Family seats for one to three months and uses payment protection and order support to reduce the risks of arranging a subscription split privately, making it a more accessible and convenient option.
FAQ
Is There a Completely Free Version of Apple Music?
No. Apple Music does not offer a permanent free, ad-supported plan. You can only listen free through eligible trials, device promotions, or selected carrier offers.
Can Existing Apple Music Subscribers Get a Free Trial?
Usually not. Most Apple Music trials are limited to new subscribers, although some returning users may receive targeted offers. Check the redemption page or Music app to confirm your eligibility.
How Do I Cancel the Apple Music Free Trial Before Being Charged?
Go to Settings > [Your Name] > Subscriptions > Apple Music, then select Cancel Free Trial. Cancel at least 24 hours before renewal, as access may end immediately after cancellation.
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