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Apple Music turns 10, marking the occasion with a significant makeover. Through the AI and machine learning features introduced in the update, the service becomes more immersive for both creators and audiences.
One of the highlights of the recent update is Lyrics Translation. When this feature is turned on, it shows users translated lyrics in real time as a song plays. Apple claims the system employs sophisticated machine learning models honed by language specialists so that emotion, cultural context, and lyrical meaning aren’t lost in translation.
To international listeners, this may translate to comprehension of K-pop, Latin, or French chart-toppers without losing the emotional import.
For music lovers who like to belt out tunes, the iOS 26 update adds a feature that turns an iPhone into a Karaoke mic. When this mode is enabled, voices are amplified over the TV.
Karaoke Mode allows the song to be cast onscreen using the iPhone as a Continuity Camera. Lyrics display on the screen with visual effects, adding multi-sensory satisfaction to this feature’s repertoire.
Apple has also introduced new, creative features for aspiring musicians and hobbyists. Voice Memos now features a Studio Voice mode that records in Spatial Audio, with vocal-booth-quality sound. It enables artists to easily record ideas that sound professional and polished.
Other minor but handy adjustments are Music Pins, which allow listeners to access favourite songs conveniently, and animated album art that gives the iPhone lock screen a dynamic touch.
The boldest addition to Apple Music is AutoMix. Enabled by default, the feature mixes tracks together in tempo and rhythm-matched blends, similar to a pro DJ.
"It identifies that sweet spot during a transition between two songs," said Oliver Schusser, Apple’s Vice President of Music & International Content. For enthusiasts, the feature can be disabled, providing them with the classic track-by-track playback experience.
The iOS 26 update comes at a symbolic moment. As Apple Music celebrates its 10th anniversary, Schusser insists the service will remain tightly focused on music. This specialization is unlike rivals that are branching out into podcasts, audiobooks, and other audio formats.
“We’re not about ads, we’re not about creating an audio supermarket,” he said. “We are incredibly focused on artists, songwriters, creatives, everyone involved in the music process.”, Schusser added.
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While Spotify, Tidal, and Amazon Music are vying for room in the space of streaming, Apple is wagering that innovation that is music-based will differentiate it.
“The majority of our competitors are fleeing from music… there’s been incredibly little innovation,” Schusser said. “We’ve been innovating a lot more than anyone else.”, he added.
Subscribers who upgrade to iOS 26 will find these features in the Apple Music app. AutoMix is enabled automatically, and Karaoke Mode is available through AirPlay on supported TVs. Lyrics Translation is available on an expanding library of international tracks, with additional titles coming in the months ahead.
With its combination of AI-driven translation, live performance capabilities, and mixing DJ-style, Apple Music’s 10th birthday displays a definite message. The company is investing more in music, not diversifying out of it. For users, it means a smarter, more interactive, and more enjoyable-to-use service.
