Radio Not Working
Apple Music Apple Music
Severity: MinorWhat 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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.