With the recent launch of iOS 6 Beta, we have already got to see a few features that will be available in the next version of Apple’s mobile operating system. Now, a new feature relating to iTunes Match has been discovered, which could significantly enhance the user experience for music lovers.
At the moment, iTunes Match matches music from your iTunes Library with the same track on Apple’s server, and then lets you play that music on your iOS device. The way iTunes Match works at the moment is more of a download-on-the-go service than a streaming service. This means that when you want to listen to a song, it gets downloaded to your device first before you can play it.
iTunes Match in iOS 6: A Shift to Streaming
Trevor Sheridan from Apple N Apps has discovered that iTunes Match works differently in iOS 6. Instead of downloading the track to your iOS device that you want to play, iTunes Match will actually stream the music directly from Apple’s servers. This change transforms iTunes Match into a true streaming service, similar to other popular music streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music.
This new streaming capability means that users will no longer need to wait for a song to download before they can listen to it. This can be particularly beneficial for users with limited storage space on their devices, as they won’t need to store large music files locally. Additionally, streaming can provide a more seamless and immediate listening experience, especially when connected to a stable Wi-Fi or cellular network.
Benefits and Potential Challenges
The shift to streaming in iOS 6’s iTunes Match brings several benefits. For one, it can save significant storage space on your device. Instead of having to download and store each song, you can simply stream it whenever you want to listen. This is particularly useful for users with extensive music libraries who may struggle with limited storage capacity on their devices.
Moreover, streaming can offer a more dynamic and flexible listening experience. You can access your entire music library from anywhere, without needing to worry about whether you’ve downloaded specific tracks. This can be especially advantageous for users who frequently travel or switch between different devices.
However, there are also potential challenges to consider. Streaming music requires a stable internet connection, either through Wi-Fi or cellular data. Users with limited data plans may need to be cautious about streaming music over cellular networks, as it can quickly consume data allowances. Additionally, streaming may not be as reliable in areas with poor internet connectivity, potentially leading to interruptions in playback.
Have a look at the video of it in action below to see how iTunes Match streaming works in iOS 6.
Source TechMeme
Video Credit Apple N Apps
The introduction of streaming in iOS 6’s iTunes Match marks a significant improvement in how users can access and enjoy their music libraries. By eliminating the need to download tracks before playing them, Apple is providing a more efficient and user-friendly experience. While there are some considerations regarding data usage and connectivity, the benefits of streaming are likely to be well-received by many users. As we continue to explore the features of iOS 6, it will be interesting to see how this new functionality impacts the overall user experience.
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