You generally can’t download a song from the YouTube app as an audio file and add it to iTunes. YouTube says its app does not download audio, music, or MP3 files; offline video downloads are encrypted and play only in the YouTube app. If you want a local file in an Apple library, obtain it from a source that permits downloading and reproduction, then import it using the Apple app for your computer.
Can you download music from YouTube straight into iTunes?
No. YouTube’s offline video feature does not create an MP3 or other audio file that you can import. YouTube says its offline video downloads are encrypted and playable only in the YouTube app, and its app does not provide audio, music, or MP3 downloads. YouTube’s offline-video FAQs explain the limitation.
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YouTube Music Premium offers offline listening in the YouTube Music app, but that is not a documented export to an audio file for iTunes. YouTube Music says a downloaded collection must reconnect to the internet at least once every 30 days to remain available. See YouTube Music’s offline listening guidance for iPhone and iPad.
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| What you want | What to do |
|---|---|
| Listen offline without creating a library file | Use YouTube Music’s in-app offline feature if available to you. The download stays in that app; it is not an iTunes audio file. |
| Keep an audio file in an Apple library and sync it to a device | Obtain the file from a provider or website that permits downloading and reproduction, import it into Apple Music or iTunes, then sync it using the workflow for your computer. |
Import an audio file you’re allowed to use
Apple’s import guidance covers local audio files and, where the website allows the audio file to be downloaded, audio obtained from the internet. Apple’s reproduction guidance limits use to non-copyrighted material, material you own the copyright to, or material you are authorized or legally permitted to reproduce. A video being available on YouTube does not by itself establish those rights.
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On a Windows PC with Apple Music
- Save the permitted audio file somewhere you can find it.
- Open Apple Music, choose the sidebar action for importing, and select the file or folder. You can also drag the file into the app. Apple’s Windows Apple Music guide describes the import options.
- Check where the original file is stored. Apple warns that the app may add a reference to the file instead of copying it into the media folder; moving or deleting the original can therefore make the library entry stop working.
On a Windows PC with iTunes
- Open iTunes and choose File > Add File to Library to import one file, or File > Add Folder to Library to import a folder.
- Locate and select the audio, then add it to your library. Apple’s iTunes for PC instructions cover both commands.
Sync the library to an iPhone or iPad
The sync app depends on the computer’s operating system. Apple says iTunes is used for syncing on Windows and on Macs running macOS Mojave or earlier; Macs running macOS Catalina or later use Music for syncing supported content. Follow Apple’s device-sync guidance for your setup, connect the device, select the music you want to sync, and apply the sync settings.
- Windows: Use the applicable Apple device apps or iTunes workflow for your installation.
- Mac with macOS Catalina or later: Use Music.
- Mac with macOS Mojave or earlier: Use iTunes.
If your goal is only offline listening on an iPhone or iPad
You can use YouTube Music’s offline feature in its app when eligible, but the downloaded music remains for listening there rather than appearing as an importable iTunes file. The app requires an internet connection at least once every 30 days to keep downloads available, according to YouTube Music Help.
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- For all things Apple - products, accessories, apps, games, music, movies, TV shows, iCloud+, and more.
- Perfect for App Store purchases and subscriptions—get apps, games, music, movies, TV shows, and more.
- The perfect gift to say happy birthday, thank you, congratulations, and more.
- Available in $15 - 500, Card delivered via email or SMS
- Use it for purchases at any Apple Store location, on the Apple Store app, apple.com, the App Store, iTunes, Apple Music, Apple TV, Apple News+, Apple Books, Apple Arcade, iCloud+, Fitness+, Apple One, and other Apple properties in US only
Rank #2
- For all things Apple - products, accessories, apps, games, music, movies, TV shows, iCloud+, and more.
- Perfect for App Store purchases and subscriptions—get apps, games, music, movies, TV shows, and more.
- The perfect gift to say happy birthday, thank you, congratulations, and more.
- Available in $15 - 500, Card delivered via email or SMS
- Use it for purchases at any Apple Store location, on the Apple Store app, apple.com, the App Store, iTunes, Apple Music, Apple TV, Apple News+, Apple Books, Apple Arcade, iCloud+, Fitness+, Apple One, and other Apple properties in US only
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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