Apple Music and iTunes are both music platforms developed by Apple, but they serve very different purposes. Apple Music is a subscription-based streaming service that gives users access to over 100 million songs, curated playlists, and radio shows for a monthly fee. Users do not own the music—they pay for access and can download songs for offline listening only while their subscription is active. It is designed for listeners who prefer having a vast library at their fingertips without purchasing individual tracks. Available through the Apple Music app on iOS, macOS, Android, and the web, it functions much like Spotify or YouTube Music.

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In contrast, iTunes is a digital storefront and media management software where users can purchase and permanently own music, movies, and other media. Instead of a subscription, you pay per song or album, and the files are stored locally on your device for offline use, even if you stop using iTunes. While iTunes has been phased out on newer macOS versions (replaced by the Apple Music, Apple TV, and Podcasts apps), it still functions on Windows as an all-in-one tool. iTunes is ideal for users who prefer to build and keep a personal collection of music, whereas Apple Music is better suited for those who want broad access without permanent ownership.