Apple users can no longer listen to iTunes Radio for free. As expected, Apple integrated the ad-supported free music channels into Apple Music on Friday. That means users will now have to pay for a subscription to the music-streaming service to access this feature.
Apple had announced earlier this month that its radio feature would come to an end in January.
Users who try to listen to iTunes Radio will be redirected to a window suggesting to sign up for Apple Music. Mac users will also be promoted to "Get on Our Wavelength" and join the music subscription service.
Those who subscribe to iTunes Match also won't be able to access the stations previously offered on iTunes Radio.
Even though the iTunes radio stations are now off-air, iOS users will still be able to listen on Apple Music — if they pay for it. However, Apple's Beats 1 radio station is still available via iTunes as a free option for those who don't want to pay the monthly subscription.
Apple first launched iTunes Radio back in 2013 for iOS 7, Mac, Apple TV and Windows. The ad-supported music stations have always been offered as a free service. Since Apple Music includes many of the same features of iTunes Radio, such as created stations based on a particular artist or song, it would only make sense that the company merge the latter into its subscription-based service.
Apple Music launched on June 30, 2015, and costs $9.99 per month. However, there is also a free three-month trial for new users who are thinking about making the move.
Source: MacRumors
