TikTok to stream full songs in-app for Apple Music subscribers

TikTok is preparing to introduce a feature that lets users stream full songs directly in its app if they subscribe to Apple Music. The new tool, called Play Full Song, will enable users to link their Apple Music account to TikTok and listen to tracks without leaving the platform while browsing videos.

The feature is designed to simplify music discovery on the social media platform, which has become a major driver of music trends and viral hits. Once available, users will be able to tap a button on a Sound Details page or within their For You feed to start playing a track.

TikTok said the rollout of Play Full Song will begin globally in the coming weeks. Alongside the integration, the company is also launching a separate feature called Listening Party, designed to create live listening experiences between artists and fans.

New in-app music playback experience

With Play Full Song, TikTok users who subscribe to Apple Music can listen to entire tracks without switching to another app. After tapping the play option, a simplified version of Apple’s music player opens within TikTok, allowing listeners to play the track, save it for later, or add it to a playlist.

The integration is powered by Apple’s MusicKit application programming interfaces, which allow developers to incorporate parts of the Apple Music streaming service directly into their own apps. By using these tools, TikTok can offer a seamless listening experience while maintaining the functionality of the original music service.

Unlike earlier integrations, the new feature goes beyond simply saving songs to a streaming library. TikTok previously introduced a feature called Add to Music App, which enabled users to save tracks they discovered on the platform to external streaming services.

The latest integration is significant because songs played through Play Full Song will count as standard streams on Apple Music. This means artists will receive the same recognition and potential revenue as they would from plays within Apple’s own app, ensuring the feature supports musicians rather than diverting engagement away from streaming platforms.

Listening Party brings artists and fans together

In addition to streaming tracks, TikTok and Apple are introducing a new interactive feature known as Listening Party. The tool will allow artists to host live listening sessions where fans can hear music together in real time and interact with performers.

Listening Party is designed as a shared environment where participants can experience music collectively while communicating with the artist. The format resembles an audio-focused livestream, allowing artists to present tracks and respond to fans during the session.

TikTok already operates a large livestream ecosystem where creators broadcast content and interact with viewers. Listening Party builds on similar technology but focuses specifically on music engagement and promotion.

For artists, the feature offers a new way to showcase songs, debut new releases or connect directly with audiences. Fans, meanwhile, gain a more interactive listening experience than traditional streaming platforms typically provide.

TikTok’s growing role in music discovery

TikTok has become one of the most influential platforms for discovering music, with short videos often propelling songs into global popularity. Viral challenges and trending sounds on the app have helped launch the careers of numerous emerging artists and revive older tracks.

The company has previously explored deeper involvement in the music industry. In 2023, TikTok experimented with running its own music streaming service in selected markets. However, those plans were eventually abandoned in 2024 as the company shifted its strategy.

Despite stepping away from operating a standalone streaming platform, TikTok continues to expand its partnerships with established services. Integrations such as Play Full Song indicate the company is focusing on enhancing discovery and engagement rather than directly competing with streaming providers.

Under its current ownership, TikTok’s long-term ambitions in the music sector remain uncertain. However, the platform’s ability to influence listening trends and connect artists with audiences suggests it will continue to play a central role in how music is promoted and discovered online.

TikTok said both Play Full Song and Listening Party will gradually roll out worldwide in the coming weeks. Users who do not yet see the features in the app are expected to gain access as the update expands to more regions.