How To Add MP3 To Apple Music On iPhone

Apple / By / June 25, 2024

Adding MP3 files to Apple Music on iPhone is an essential step in expanding your musical library, whether you’ve converted older files or simply want to keep track of non-iTunes purchased tracks. This article will guide you through the process of adding MP3s to Apple Music, covering preparation, transfer methods, and post-addition steps.

Preparation

Before diving into the addition process, ensure your iPhone is updated with the latest software (iOS or iPadOS). You’ll also want to verify that your MP3 files are organized on your computer or storage device. If you have a large library of MP3s scattered across multiple devices or folders, it might be helpful to create a central location for easier transfer.

Transfer Methods

There are several methods for transferring MP3 files from your computer to iPhone:

  1. iTunes Library: Connect your iPhone to iTunes on Mac or PC and synchronize the selected music library with the Music app.
    • Open iTunes on your computer, select “File” > “Add Folder to Library” (or press Option + Shift + E) while holding a folder containing your MP3s.
    • Follow prompts in the iTunes window to add files from that specific directory or all contained folders.
  2. Files App: Transfer MP3s through Apple’s Files app, which allows direct access to iPhone storage:

  • Open Files on your iPhone and navigate to where you store the target folder(s) containing MP3s.
  • Select each file individaully and tap “Copy” (or right-click Option + click on PC).
  • Tap “Paste New File Here” or exhaust Quick Actions (More...) > Move To.
  1. Cloud Services: Transfer MP3 files through cloud storage services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or Microsoft OneDrive:
  • Download and install the respective service app on your iPhone (e.g., Google Drive).
  • Log into the account with which you uploaded the MP3s.
  • Open “Files” within the app and browse to locate stored MP3s. Tap each file’s ... menu or right-click > Copy.
  1. AirDrop: Share files from a nearby Mac (if supported) using AirDrop:
  • Enable Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Handoff on your Mac.
  • On your iPhone, open Files app and find the target folder containing MP3s.
  • Select each file individually, tap Share, then “Send File” in the contextual menu.

Adding MP3s to Apple Music

After selecting a transfer method:

  1. Open the Music app on your iPhone. Make sure it’s updated to include features for managing files and adding music from other sources.
  2. Tap Library > Files (or Media) to access your music library, including the added MP3s.

3-5: Within the Music app:
* Swipe: Swipe left or right in Music’s song list view to reorganize your tracks by artist, album, genre (and more).
* Playlist creation: Long-tap on a track > Add To... Playlist > New. Choose any desired parameters for custom playlists.
6: For optimized playback:
* Make sure the music library is updated and synchronized with your iPhone.

Tips and Troubleshooting

  1. Audio format compatibility: Verify that your MP3s are encoded in 16-bit, stereo audio to avoid potential issues during playback on your iPhone or other devices.

  2. Volume Normalization: For optimal sound quality: Use third-party apps (e.g., Adobe Audition) for batch processing if needed.

    • “Adjust volume and loudness of an entire album” with the included ‘Loudness Normalizer’ in some audio editing software like GarageBand, iMovie, or Fission.
  3. Duplicates: Eliminate duplicate songs by long-tapping on a track > Merge Duplicate Songs within the Music app.

  4. Playlist management: To manage playlists efficiently:
    • Tap Library > Playlists to view your created collections.
    • Swipe left/right between tracks while in playlist view for quicker organization.

Conclusion

Adding MP3 files to Apple Music on iPhone requires a thoughtful approach, taking into consideration data transfer and audio formatting considerations. This guide covers essential steps from preparation through addition and post-addition tasks for optimized music management on your iOS device.
The presented methods provide flexibility and adaptability when it comes to bringing in non-iTunes content into the Music app ecosystem.
For any additional guidance or further inquiries, please consult Apple’s support resources.

Note: This article is an original creation.

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