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Radio Not Working

Apple Music Apple Music

Severity: Minor

What Does This Error Mean?

Apple Music Radio is live-streamed — it won't work without an internet connection. Some Radio features also require an active Apple Music subscription. Checking your connection and subscription status usually resolves it.

Affected Models

  • Apple Music on iPhone
  • Apple Music on iPad
  • Apple Music on Mac
  • Apple Music on HomePod

Common Causes

  • No internet connection — Radio streams live and cannot play offline
  • Subscription required for certain Radio features
  • Apple Radio server issue or outage
  • Device location restrictions for certain stations
  • App needs an update

How to Fix It

  1. Check your internet connection — Apple Music Radio is live-streamed and cannot play without it.

    Unlike downloaded songs, Radio cannot be cached or played offline.

  2. Check that your Apple Music subscription is active at music.apple.com.

    Apple Music 1 is free, but some Radio features and ad-free listening require a subscription.

  3. Try switching to a different Radio station to see if the issue is with one specific station.

    If other stations work, the one you wanted may be temporarily down or unavailable in your region.

  4. Check Apple's system status page at apple.com/support/systemstatus for any Radio outages.

    Apple lists live service issues here — Radio outages are usually resolved within a few hours.

  5. Update the Music app and restart your device, then try Radio again.

    On iPhone and iPad, updates arrive via Settings > General > Software Update.

When to Call a Professional

This is a streaming or server issue. No professional is needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Apple Music Radio free to listen to?

Apple Music 1 (the flagship live station) is free — no subscription needed. Other Radio features, like ad-free listening and on-demand shows, require a paid Apple Music subscription.

Why does Apple Music Radio work on some devices but not others?

The device that works is probably on a better internet connection. Also check that the Apple Music app is up to date on the device where Radio isn't working.

Can I download Apple Music Radio shows to listen offline?

Some Apple Music Radio shows are available as on-demand episodes that can be downloaded. Live Radio stations cannot be downloaded — they're always streamed in real time.