How to use Apple Music and Alexa on your Amazon Echo speaker

Amazon Echo

HomePod isn’t the only smart speaker that works well with your iPhone. An Amazon Echo or Echo Dot can do many of the same things as HomePod with the help of Alexa. The sound quality may be better on a HomePod, but you can still use your Apple Music subscription to play music with Alexa.

If you haven’t delved into this yet, we’re here to help. Here’s how to use Apple Music and Alexa on your Amazon Echo speaker.

Note: You must be an Apple Music subscriber.

Use the Alexa app

It all starts with an app and if you have your Amazon Echo or Echo Dot, you’ve likely already downloaded it and connected your device. But if not, you can head over to the App Store and download Alexa for free.

Connect Apple Music

Assuming your iPhone and Amazon Echo speaker are all set up and connected, here’s how to start listening to Apple Music.

1) Open the Alexa app and tap the top left to open the menu.

2) Select Skills & Games.

3) You can search for Apple Music at the top or select Categories > Music & Audio and browse for it (it will likely be one of the first skills in the music list).

Apple Music in Alexa App Skills and Games

4) Tap to open the Apple Music page and tap Enable to Use. You’ll then be prompted to link your account by signing in. Just follow the prompts on the screen to log in and allow access.

Enable Apple Music in Alexa App

5) When you see the confirmation that your Apple Music account has been successfully linked, tap Done.

Apple Music Connected to Alexa App

You should be returned to the Alexa app on the Apple Music page. Here, you can take a look at just a few commands you can give to Alexa when you’re ready to listen to your music.

Apple Music Details in Alexa App

Listen to your tunes

Now you’re all set and ready to listen to your music! Here are a several more commands you can give to Alexa for Apple Music.

  • “Alexa, play Apple Music.”
  • “Alexa, play my playlist {playlist name} on Apple Music.”
  • “Alexa, what’s the name of this song?”
  • “Alexa, who sings this song?”
  • “Alexa, play next song.”
  • “Alexa, pause/resume the song.”
  • “Alexa, play Beats 1 Radio on Apple Music.”

This isn’t an exhaustive list of commands you can use. So, experiment with commands to explore everything Alexa can do with Apple Music.

Wrapping it up

If you end up picking up an Amazon Echo speaker or receiving one as a gift like I did, take advantage of it. Use your Apple Music subscription to listen to your playlists, favorite tunes, or top hits.

Do you have an Amazon Echo or Echo Dot and are ready to rock out with Apple Music and Alexa? Let us know!