Apple Music Gets a Playlist Makeover: AI-Powered Playlists and Concert Discovery
Apple is rolling out significant updates to Apple Music with the iOS 26.4 beta, focusing on personalized playlist creation and enhanced music discovery. The most notable addition is “Playlist Playground,” a modern feature leveraging AI to generate playlists based on simple text prompts.
Playlist Playground: Your Mood, Your Mix
Forget endless scrolling and curated lists. Playlist Playground allows users to simply describe the vibe they’re after – “morning coffee music,” “hip-hop party songs,” or even more abstract ideas – and Apple Music will automatically generate a 25-song playlist. The feature offers pre-set suggestions to get users started, but the real power lies in the ability to input custom prompts, tailoring the music to any mood or feeling.
Once created, these AI-generated playlists aren’t set in stone. Users can refine them with further text prompts, adjust the song selection, and personalize the cover art and description. Playlists can then be shared with friends and displayed on user profiles, just like traditionally created playlists.
Beyond Playlists: Concerts Come to Apple Music
Apple Music is also expanding its role as a comprehensive music hub by integrating concert discovery directly into the app. Users will now be able to find upcoming shows in their area and tour dates for their favorite artists, streamlining the process of connecting with live music experiences.
A Fresh Look for Albums and Playlists
Visually, Apple Music is receiving a refresh. The iOS 26.4 beta introduces a fullscreen design for albums and playlists, with track lists adopting background colors that complement the artwork. This creates a more immersive and visually appealing experience, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the app.
What’s Next for Apple Music?
The iOS 26.4 beta is currently available to developers, with a public beta expected to follow soon. The full software launch is anticipated in the spring. These updates signal Apple’s continued investment in enhancing the Apple Music experience, focusing on personalization, discovery, and seamless integration with the broader Apple ecosystem.
Pro Tip:
If Playlist Playground doesn’t appear immediately after updating to the iOS 26.4 beta, try restarting your device or the Apple Music app.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Playlist Playground?
Playlist Playground is a new feature in Apple Music that uses AI to create playlists based on text prompts.
How do I access Playlist Playground?
Open Apple Music, tap Library, and then tap the “+” button to create a new playlist. The option should appear there.
When will iOS 26.4 be released to the public?
The software is expected to launch in the spring.
Can I share playlists created with Playlist Playground?
Yes, playlists created with Playlist Playground can be shared and displayed on your profile.
Will the concert feature work in all locations?
The concert feature’s availability will depend on data availability for specific regions.
Ready to experience the future of music discovery? Share your thoughts on these new Apple Music features in the comments below!
