Apple Music

Apple’s subscription-based music streaming service. In MDM environments, admins can restrict or allow Apple Music through configuration profiles to prevent bandwidth usage or enforce productivity policies.

What to Know

Apple Music restrictions are commonly deployed to preserve network bandwidth and enforce workplace productivity standards. Streaming music can consume significant bandwidth on cellular-connected devices, driving up data costs for organizations with pooled cellular plans. Beyond bandwidth concerns, some organizations restrict entertainment services on business-purpose devices to reinforce acceptable use policies and minimize workplace distractions.

Common Scenarios

Enterprise IT: Corporate IT often blocks Apple Music on shared devices like conference room iPads, kiosk devices, or corporate-owned iPhones where music streaming serves no business purpose. On employee-assigned devices, policies vary—some organizations allow music during work hours for employee satisfaction, while others restrict it to maintain productivity standards.

MSP: MSPs configure Apple Music restrictions based on client industry and culture. Law firms and financial services clients commonly block streaming services entirely, while creative agencies or tech startups may leave them enabled. MSPs should document each client’s preference and apply restrictions consistently across the fleet.

Education: Schools typically restrict Apple Music on student devices to preserve classroom focus and prevent students from streaming content during instructional time. Teachers may be allowed access on their devices. Some schools restrict music streaming only during school hours using time-based restrictions.

In Addigy

Addigy’s Restrictions payload includes an “Allow Music Service” option that disables Apple Music entirely when unchecked. This restriction applies system-wide and prevents the Music app from streaming Apple Music content, though locally stored music remains accessible. The restriction requires a supervised device on iOS/iPadOS and takes effect immediately when the profile is deployed.