It is not an exaggeration at all to call iOS 8.4 Apple’s most important iOS update so far. How can an incremental update be so critical? The answer is simple: Apple Music. Digital music consumption has been shifting from downloads to streaming for years now, and Apple has essentially been a no-show — and that includes iTunes Radio. With Apple Music, however, Apple is finally willing to admit that the traditional iTunes model is on its way out and streaming is here to stay.
We published a hands-on preview of Apple Music earlier today, and now it’s available to the world with the release of iOS 8.4.
DON’T MISS: Changing the Game: Study Reaffirms the Massive Impact Netflix is Having on Pay TV
iOS 8.4 is available for download beginning immediately as an over-the-air (OTA) update. It can also be downloaded through iTunes. Compatible devices include the iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 5s, iPhone 5c, iPhone 5, iPhone 4S, iPad 2 or newer, and fifth-generation iPod touch.
To install the update over the air, simply open the Settings app on your iOS device and tap General. Then tap Software Update and follow the on-screen instructions.
Apple Music is a new app that will replace the old Music app on your iPhone or iPad. The functionality of that old app is now contained entirely on the last tab in the Apple Music app, which is labeled “My Music.”
Apple’s flagship radio station Beats 1 will begin broadcasting globally at 12:00 p.m. EDT.
