iTunes Store: iTunes Plus Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary
What is iTunes Plus?
iTunes Plus is the new standard on iTunes. iTunes Plus downloads are songs and music videos available in our highest quality 256 kbps AAC audio encoding (twice the audio quality of protected music purchases), and without digital rights management (DRM). iTunes Plus music can be burned to CD as many times as you need, synced to any AAC-enabled device (such as iPod, iPhone, or Apple TV), and played on any Mac or Windows computers you own.
Products Affected
iTunes Store, iTunes
How much does iTunes Plus music cost?
iTunes Plus songs are available at one of three price points. In the U.S. the pricing is 0.69 USD, 0.99 USD, or 1.29 USD each. Other countries have similar song price points. Check your country's iTunes Store for pricing.
Can I upgrade previously purchased music to iTunes Plus?
Yes. Any available upgrades will be shown on the Upgrade to iTunes Plus page. You can upgrade all of your items at once by using the Buy All button. This replaces all eligible previous purchases with iTunes Plus versions of the same items. You can also choose to make individual upgrades by clicking the Buy button to the right of each item. Song upgrades are available for 0.30 USD, video upgrades for 0.60 USD, and albums for 30 percent of the album price. The counter to the right of the "Upgrade to iTunes Plus" link in the Quick Links box will indicate when additional eligible content become available.
You can view your eligible iTunes Plus upgrade items by clicking here.
Can I still buy music encoded at 128 Kbps with Digital Rights Management (DRM)?
Music on the Store available in iTunes Plus will no longer be available as 128 kbps and with DRM.
Is there a change in video quality for iTunes Plus videos?
No, the video quality remains the same. iTunes Plus means that the music videos are offered DRM-free and with our highest-quality audio within the video, 256 kbps AAC.
How do I purchase and play iTunes Plus music?
First, upgrade to the latest version of iTunes. Music and music videos available in iTunes Plus are indicated as such on the album or video page or track list. To purchase, simply click the Buy button as you would for any other music on the Store.
What happens to my existing files when I upgrade my music to iTunes Plus?
Your upgraded iTunes Plus music will replace the original purchases in your library. You will be given an option to delete the original files or move them to your desktop at time of download.
Why is iTunes Plus format available for certain music, but not all?
The reason that certain music and music videos are not offered in our DRM-free, highest quality audio format is because they have not been provided in iTunes Plus format from the music label.
If I have a free song or video code, can I redeem it for an iTunes Plus song or video?
Yes. If you have a code for any free song or video you can redeem it for an iTunes Plus song or video.
How does Complete My Album work for iTunes Plus?
If you've purchased a single at 128 kbps with DRM and want the iTunes Plus version of the remaining tracks, you may use Complete My Album. The Complete My Album offer will deliver the remaining tracks in iTunes Plus.
Can I give iTunes Plus music as a gift?
Yes. To find out more about how to send gifts from the iTunes Store click here.
Can I use iTunes Gift Cards and iTunes Gift Certificates to pay for iTunes Plus music?
Yes, you can use iTunes Gift Cards and iTunes Gift Certificates to pay for iTunes Plus music and upgrades.
What do I need in order to purchase and play iTunes Plus music?
You'll need to upgrade to the latest version of iTunes to preview, purchase, and play iTunes Plus music.