If you’re trying to download your favorite tracks from Apple Music on your Windows 11 PC but nothing seems to work, you’re not alone. Many users face issues with downloads not starting, getting stuck, or failing completely in the Apple Music app. However, you shouldn’t bother about this frustrating problem as I’ve already listed out the 14 best tips and tricks to fix Apple Music not downloading songs on Windows 11. That said, read on to…
Fix Apple Music Not Downloading Songs on Windows 11
What prevents Apple Music from downloading songs? Well, it mainly happens due to poor internet, outdated software, account-related issues, or misconfigured settings. Fortunately, there are various ways to get rid of it.
1. Check Your Internet Connection
It’s important to mention that a stable and fast internet connection is required to download songs from Apple Music.
- So, I’d recommend you first test your internet using a speed test tool or by streaming a video.
- If needed, restart your router or switch to a wired connection if speeds are inconsistent.
2. Restart the Apple Music App
Keep in mind that the temporary glitches plaguing the Apple Music app can interrupt the download process. More often than not, you can sort out this issue by just restarting the music app.
- To do so, close the app completely via Task Manager (Shift+Control+Esc) and reopen it.
- Select Apple Music in the left sidebar and hit the End task button at the top.
- After that, try downloading the song again after restarting.
3. Sign Out and Back Into Your Apple ID
Note that Authentication issues with your Apple ID can prevent downloads.
- Simply, fire up the Music app, go to Account > Sign Out, and then sign back in.
- This refreshes your session and can resolve sync or download issues.
4. Update the Apple Music App
The outdated app version may be infested with too many bugs that could be blocking the downloads.
- To get going, open the Microsoft Store, search for “Apple Music,” and click “Update” if available.
- Notably, using the latest version ensures compatibility and stability.
5. Update Windows 11
No luck as yet? Now is the right time to update your Windows device as the system-level bugs or outdated components can interfere with app functionality.
- To begin with, launch the Settings app > Windows Update and check for updates.
- Next up, follow the official steps to install all available updates and restart your PC.
6. Check Your Apple Music Subscription
It’s worth pointing out that the downloads are only available to users with an active Apple Music subscription.
- Therefore, visit music.apple.com and log in to check your subscription status.
- Renew your subscription if it’s expired or facing billing issues.
7. Disable VPN or Proxy Services
It’s no secret that the VPNs or proxies can interfere with Apple’s servers and cause download failures.
- Thus I’d suggest you temporarily turn off any active VPN or proxy settings.
- Try downloading the songs again after disabling these services.
8. Change the Download Location
If the default download location is full or inaccessible, downloads may fail.
- In the Apple Music app, go to Settings and change the media folder to a different location with enough space.
- Next, try re-downloading songs after making the change.
9. Run the Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter
Windows includes a built-in troubleshooter to detect issues with Microsoft Store apps.
- On your PC, launch the Settings app > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
- Run the “Windows Store Apps” troubleshooter and follow the prompts.
10. Allow Apple Music Through Windows Firewall
Bear in mind that Windows Firewall may block the app from accessing download servers.
- On your Windows device, open the Windows Security (Settings app > Privacy & Security) > Firewall & network protection.
- Now, Allow the Apple Music app through firewall.
- Make sure Apple Music is allowed through both private and public networks.
11. Disable Metered Connection
If your network is set to metered, downloads may be paused to save data.
- Dive into the Settings app on your computer > Network & internet > Wi-Fi > Your network > Turn off “Metered connection.”
- Retry the download after changing this setting.
12. Clear Apple Music App Cache
Corrupted cache data can lead to app malfunctions, including failed downloads.
- Navigate to:
C:\Users\[YourName]\AppData\Local\Packages\AppleInc.AppleMusic_*and delete the “Temp” or “Cache” folder. - Restart the app and attempt to download the songs again.
13. Reinstall the Apple Music App
A clean reinstall can fix broken installation files or settings.
- To uninstall the Apple Music app, go to the Settings app > Apps > Installed Apps.
- Now, find the Apple Music app and hit the triple-dot icon next to it.
- Choose Uninstall in the menu and confirm.
- After that, download the Apple Music app and log back into your Apple ID and reattempt the download.
14. Contact Apple Support
If none of the above methods work, there might be a deeper account or device issue. Hence, it would be helpful to contact Apple Support.
- So, launch a browser on your PC and visit Apple Support, and contact them via chat or phone.
- They can check your account status and device compatibility on their end.
Wrapping Up
There you go! Apple Music not downloading songs on Windows 11 can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you just want to enjoy your favorite playlists offline. Thankfully, with the 14 solutions listed above, you have a comprehensive set of tools to fix the problem—ranging from network checks to app settings and system tweaks.
By methodically working through each fix, you’ll likely identify the culprit and restore smooth downloading in no time. If none of these steps solve the issue, Apple Support can step in and provide more tailored assistance.
