TikTok has introduced a new feature that allows users in select countries to stream full-length songs directly within its app, provided they are subscribers of Apple Music. This development marks a significant step in enhancing music discovery on TikTok, transforming short clips into full-length streams while ensuring that royalty payments are made to rights holders.
The ‘Play Full Song’ feature is accessible via a button within TikTok, which opens a full-screen player displaying the source as Apple Music. This integration builds on TikTok’s existing ‘Add to Music App’ functionality, which previously required users to switch to their streaming service to listen to full tracks. By leveraging Apple’s MusicKit APIs, TikTok can facilitate full song streaming without holding its own licensing agreements.
Currently in beta testing, the ‘Play Full Song’ feature is not available in the US, UK, or European territories. However, this partnership with Apple Music could pave the way for future collaborations with additional streaming services, similar to the existing integrations seen with Spotify, Amazon Music, SoundCloud, and YouTube Music.
In conjunction with the ‘Play Full Song’ feature, TikTok is also testing a ‘Listening Party’ function that enables artists to host album listening sessions within the app. Fans can participate in these sessions, engaging with artists and each other through comments, while Apple Music remains the source for full tracks. Although non-subscribers can join the conversation and listen to clips, they will not have access to the full streams. This initiative reflects a broader trend of online listening parties gaining popularity across various platforms.
