Apple has officially expanded Apple Music Classical to six new Asian markets, bringing its dedicated classical music streaming experience to China, Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan. The rollout significantly broadens the app’s global availability, allowing more Apple Music subscribers to enjoy one of the world’s largest digital classical music catalogs at no additional cost.
Six New Markets Join the Platform
Starting January 24, Apple Music Classical is available in the following regions:
- China
- Japan
- South Korea
- Hong Kong
- Macau
- Taiwan
Users in these markets can download the standalone app from the App Store, provided they have an eligible Apple Music subscription. The expansion comes after the service initially launched in 2023 across most global markets, excluding these regions.
What Is Apple Music Classical?
Apple Music Classical is a standalone application designed specifically for classical music enthusiasts. Built on the technology and catalog acquired through Primephonic, the service offers a listening experience tailored to the unique structure of classical music.
Subscribers gain access to:
- More than 5 million classical tracks
- Advanced search by composer, work, conductor, orchestra, opus number, or instrument
- Curated playlists and editorial recommendations
- Composer biographies and detailed work notes
- High-resolution Lossless Audio
- Thousands of recordings available in Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos where supported.
A Better Way to Discover Classical Music
Unlike traditional music streaming apps, Apple Music Classical is optimized for the complexities of classical music. Users can search for specific recordings of a composition rather than just a song title, making it easier to compare performances by different orchestras, conductors, and soloists.
The app also organizes music by composer, period, work, and recording, offering a more intuitive browsing experience for both seasoned listeners and newcomers.
Included with Apple Music
Apple Music Classical does not require a separate subscription. Anyone with a compatible Apple Music plan can access the app at no additional cost.
The service is available on supported iPhone devices and Android smartphones, while requiring an internet connection for streaming.
Strengthening Apple’s Services Ecosystem
The launch in six additional Asian markets reflects Apple’s continued investment in its services business. By expanding Apple Music Classical into major markets such as China and Japan, the company is making its premium music offerings accessible to millions of additional subscribers.
Apple has also strengthened its classical music portfolio in recent years through acquisitions, including classical streaming service Primephonic and renowned classical music label BIS Records.
Final Thoughts
The arrival of Apple Music Classical in China, Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan marks another milestone in Apple’s efforts to serve classical music fans worldwide. With its extensive catalog, advanced search tools, lossless audio, and curated editorial content, the app offers a premium listening experience that sets it apart from conventional music streaming platforms.
As Apple continues to expand its digital services ecosystem, Apple Music Classical is poised to become an essential destination for both lifelong classical enthusiasts and listeners discovering the genre for the first time.
