How to Transfer Music from Computer to iPhone 14/13/12

Transferring music from your computer to iPhone can greatly enhance your music listening experience. With a vast array of music files stored on your computer, you might want to enjoy them on your iPhone, as it offers great sound quality, portability, and convenience. This is particularly handy for those albums and songs that might not be available on streaming services, or for situations where you might not have access to the internet to stream music.

There are several methods available to transfer music from your computer to iPhone 14/13/12, depending on the tools and applications you prefer. The traditional method involves using Apple’s own software – iTunes. But if you don’t want to use iTunes, there are third-party apps and software that offer this function as well. Additionally, if you use a streaming service like Apple Music or Spotify, you can download music for offline listening on your iPhone, right from your account.

The Music File Format Supported by iPhone

The iPhone supports a variety of music file formats. The most common ones include:

AAC: This is the default audio format for iTunes and the iTunes Store. AAC files can have better sound quality than MP3s at the same bit rate.

MP3: This is a universal audio format supported by virtually all music players, including the iPhone.

ALAC: As the name suggests, this is Apple’s own lossless codec. Files are larger than MP3s, but the audio quality is excellent, suitable for audiophiles who don’t want to compromise on sound quality.

AIFF: This format is commonly used in professional audio and video applications, and it’s supported by the iPhone.

WAV: This is another lossless format that retains the full quality of the audio but takes up a lot of storage space.

It’s important to note that while these formats are supported, certain formats like FLAC, a popular choice for high-quality audio, are not natively supported. If you have music in this format, you’ll need to convert them to one of the supported formats before you can play them on your iPhone.

The Challenge of Transferrming Music from Computer to iPhone

While transferring music from your computer to your iPhone can be a relatively straightforward process, it can sometimes pose challenges, especially for those who are unfamiliar with the ecosystem of Apple devices or the intricacies of different file formats. Here are some of the common challenges:

Understanding iTunes: The primary method for transferring music to an iPhone involves using iTunes, which can be intimidating for first-time users due to its many features and settings.

Dealing with Different File Formats: As mentioned, iPhone only supports certain music file formats. If your music library contains formats like FLAC that aren’t natively supported by iPhone, you’ll need to convert them before transfer or use third-party apps.

Syncing issues: The syncing process between iTunes and iPhone can sometimes cause problems, particularly when you’re trying to sync specific songs or albums instead of your entire library. It can lead to unintended removal of previously synced songs.

DRM protection: Some songs purchased from the iTunes Store or other online music shops might have Digital Rights Management (DRM) protection, which can limit how you transfer and play these files.

Addressing these challenges may require a bit of patience and learning, but with the right guidance and solutions, you’ll be able to easily transfer your favorite music from computer to iPhone 14/13/12.

Solution 1: How to Transfer Music from Computer to iPhone Using iTunes

iTunes is the default and one of the easiest methods to transfer music from a computer to an iPhone. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Install iTunes
If you haven’t already, download and install the latest version of iTunes on your computer. You can download it from the official Apple website.

Step 2: Add Music to iTunes Library

• Open iTunes and click on "File" in the upper left corner of the interface.
• Click on "Add File to Library" or "Add Folder to Library".
• Navigate to the location of your music files on your computer and select the ones you want to add. If you choose "Add Folder to Library", you can add a whole folder of music files at once.

Step 3: Connect the iPhone to Computer

Connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB cable and click on the device icon in the upper left corner of the iTunes window to go to the device management screen.

Step 4: Sync Music

• In the left sidebar under your iPhone, click "Music".
• Check the box next to "Sync Music".
• You can choose to sync your "Entire music library" or "Selected playlists, artists, albums, and genres".
• If you choose to sync selected items, scroll down to the bottom where you can select the specific playlists, artists, albums, or genres you want.
• After making your selection, click "Apply" at the bottom right corner to begin syncing your music.

Remember that syncing music with iTunes means that the existing music library on your iPhone will be replaced with the music library on your computer. If there are songs on your iPhone that are not in the iTunes library, they will be deleted. Also, make sure not to disconnect your iPhone until the syncing process is complete.

Pros:

• Officially supported by Apple, and comes pre-installed on every Mac (Windows users can download it for free).
• Can handle large file transfers.
• Allows you to organize your music library, create playlists, and more.

Cons:

• The sync process can be confusing and could result in unintended deletion of previously added songs.
• iTunes does not support all music file formats.
• Might be considered heavy or slow on some older computers.

Solution 1: How to Transfer Music from Computer to iPhone without iTunes

FoneTrans is a powerful and user-friendly iPhone transfer tool designed to facilitate the transfer of files, including music, between an iPhone and a computer. Whether you’re looking to move your entire music library or just a select few favorite songs, FoneTrans can make the process swift and seamless.

Unlike iTunes, which relies on syncing, FoneTrans allows for direct file transfers. This means you can add music to your iPhone without losing any existing songs, a common concern when using iTunes. The software also supports a range of file formats, making it more versatile and convenient for various user needs.

Moreover, FoneTrans is not just limited to transferring music. It also supports the transfer of other file types such as photos, videos, contacts, and text messages. This comprehensive functionality makes it a useful tool for overall iPhone management.

Step 1: Install FoneTrans

If you haven’t already, download and install the FoneTrans app on your computer. You can download it from the official Aiseesoft website.

Step 2: Plug  iPhone into Computer

Connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB cable and launch FoneTrans. It should automatically recognize your iPhone.

Step 3: Add Music to iPhone

• In the FoneTrans interface, select the "Music" tab from the left sidebar to see all the existing music files on your iPhone.
• Click the "+" or "Add" button, usually located at the top of the interface.
• Navigate to the location of your music files on your computer and select the ones you want to add. You can select multiple files by holding down the "Ctrl" key (Windows) or "Command" key (Mac) while clicking on each file. After selecting, click "Open" or "OK" to start the transfer.

That’s it! Unlike iTunes, FoneTrans allows you to add music to your iPhone without syncing, which means you can add music to your iPhone without losing the existing songs.

Pros:

• Provides direct file transfers without syncing, allowing you to add music without losing existing songs.
• User-friendly interface.
• Supports multiple file types beyond just music, like photos, contacts, and messages.

Cons:

• It is a paid software, although a free trial is available.
• Not an official Apple tool, so there might be compatibility issues with future iOS updates.

Requires downloading and installing an additional third-party software, which some users may not be comfortable with.

Solution 3: How to Transfer Music from Computer to iPhone Using Google Drive

Transferring music from your computer to your iPhone using Google Drive is a good alternative when you don’t have access to iTunes or prefer not to use a third-party application. This method involves uploading the music files to Google Drive and then downloading them on your iPhone.

Please note that this method won’t add the songs to your iPhone’s built-in Music app, but you’ll be able to play them directly from the Google Drive app. Also, keep in mind that you’ll need to have enough available storage space in your Google Drive to store the music files.

Step 1: Upload Music Files to Google Drive

• Open Google Drive in a web browser on your computer and sign in to your Google account.
• Click on the "+ New" button on the left side of the screen and select "File upload" or "Folder upload" depending on your needs.
• Navigate to the location of your music files on your computer and select the ones you want to upload to Google Drive.

Step 2: Download the Google Drive App on your iPhone

• If you haven’t already, download and install the Google Drive app from the App Store on your iPhone.
• Sign in to the same Google account you used to upload the music files.

Step 3: Download Music Files to your iPhone

• Open the Google Drive app on your iPhone.
• Locate the music files you uploaded earlier.
• Click on the three dots next to the file’s name and select "Make available offline". This will download the music file to your iPhone so you can listen to it even without an internet connection.

Remember, the music files downloaded in this way can only be played within the Google Drive app. If you want to add music to your iPhone’s built-in Music app, you’ll need to use iTunes or a compatible third-party app.

Pros:

• No need for any cables, as files are transferred over the internet.
• Access your files from any device as long as you’re signed into your Google account.

Cons:

• Files are not added to the built-in Music app, but must be played from the Google Drive app.
• You need sufficient storage space on Google Drive, which might require a paid subscription.
• Transfers depend on your internet speed and might not be suitable for large music libraries.

Solution 4: How to Transfer Music from Computer to iPhone with AirDrop (Mac Only)

AirDrop is a convenient feature for Apple users that allows you to wirelessly transfer files between devices, including from a Mac to an iPhone. You can use it to transfer music files quickly and easily. Here’s how:

Step 1: Enable AirDrop on Your iPhone

• Open the Control Center on your iPhone. You can do this by swiping down from the upper right corner of the screen on iPhone X or newer models, or swiping up from the bottom of the screen on iPhone 8 or older models.
• Press and hold the network settings block to expand it, then tap on AirDrop.
• Choose "Contacts Only" or "Everyone" depending on your preference.

Step 2: Enable AirDrop on Your Mac

• Open Finder, then click on "Go" in the menu bar and select "AirDrop".
• In the AirDrop window, choose "Contacts Only" or "Everyone" in the "Allow me to be discovered by" dropdown menu.

Step 3: Transfer Music Files

• Still in the AirDrop window on your Mac, drag and drop the music files you want to transfer onto the icon of your iPhone.
• A pop-up window will appear on your iPhone asking you to accept the files. Tap "Accept".

Pros:

• Quick and easy to use for small numbers of files.
• No cables or third-party software needed.
• Transfers are wireless and do not require internet.

Cons:

• Available only between Apple devices.
• Not suitable for large numbers of files or large music libraries.
• Transferred files are not added to the built-in Music app, but are saved in the Files app instead.

Video: How To Transfer Music From Computer To iPhone – Full Guide

Why Can’t I Transfer Music to My iPhone from My Computer?

If you’re having difficulty transferring music from your computer to your iPhone, it could be due to several reasons:

iTunes/Software Issues: If you’re using iTunes or another software to transfer music and it’s not working, make sure you have the latest version of the software. Sometimes, outdated software can cause issues with the transfer process.

File Format: The music file you’re trying to transfer might not be in a format that your iPhone can read. iPhones typically support MP3, AAC, ALAC, WAV, and AIFF. If your music file is in another format, you may need to convert it before transferring.

Sync Settings: If you’re using iTunes and only some of your songs are transferring, you might need to check your sync settings. iTunes lets you choose to sync your entire library or selected songs, albums, or playlists.

DRM Protection: Some songs purchased or downloaded from online music shops might have Digital Rights Management (DRM) protection, which can limit how you transfer and play these files.

Cable Issues: If your computer isn’t recognizing your iPhone, it could be due to a faulty or incompatible USB cable. Try using a different cable to see if it resolves the issue.

Storage Space: Your iPhone may not have enough storage space left to accommodate new music files. Check your iPhone’s storage in Settings > General > [Device] Storage.

If none of these solutions work, consider reaching out to Apple Support or the support service of the software you’re using for more help.

Frequently Asked Questions about iPhone Music Transfer

Can I transfer music from PC to iPhone without iTunes?

Yes, you can. There are various ways to do this such as using third-party software like FoneTrans, or cloud services like Google Drive. You can also use Windows Media Player if your PC runs on Windows and your iPhone is on iOS 10 or earlier.

How do I put music from my computer onto my iPhone?

There are multiple ways to do this. The most common method is using iTunes, where you sync your music library from your computer to your iPhone. You can also use third-party software like FoneTrans, or cloud services like Google Drive. Another option is to use AirDrop if you’re transferring from a Mac.

How do I download music onto my iPhone?

You can download music onto your iPhone either by purchasing songs or albums from the iTunes Store, or by subscribing to Apple Music or another streaming service that offers download functionality for offline listening. Alternatively, you can transfer music from your computer to your iPhone using methods like iTunes, FoneTrans, Google Drive, or AirDrop.

Is there a free version of Apple Music?

Apple Music itself does not have a permanently free version. However, it does offer a free trial period which usually lasts three months. After the trial period ends, you will need to choose a paid subscription plan to continue using Apple Music. Note that the free trial is only available to users who haven’t subscribed to Apple Music before.

The Bottom Line

As we can see, transferring music from computer to an iPhone involves a range of methods that cater to different user needs and preferences. The most common method is using iTunes, an official Apple software that allows you to sync your music library from your computer to your iPhone.

Alternatively, you can use third-party tools like FoneTrans, which offer a more straightforward drag-and-drop experience without the need for syncing, thereby preserving your existing iPhone music library. Cloud services like Google Drive provide another option, allowing you to upload music files to the cloud and then download them on your iPhone. Lastly, if you’re using a Mac and an iPhone, you can use the built-in AirDrop function for quick and easy wireless file transfers.

However, each method has its pros and cons in terms of ease of use, the potential for data loss, software or hardware requirements, and whether the transferred music can be played via the iPhone’s built-in Music app. Also, certain issues like incompatible file formats, outdated software versions, DRM protection, or insufficient storage space on the iPhone might pose challenges during the transfer process.