How to Subscribe to Apple Music With MTN in Nigeria (2026 Guide)

Apple Music is one of the most popular music-streaming services in the world, giving subscribers access to millions of songs, curated playlists, music videos, radio stations and other content. For Nigerians using MTN, there is a convenient way to subscribe without necessarily using a debit or credit card.

Instead of paying Apple directly with a bank card, eligible MTN customers can subscribe to Apple Music through MTN’s Apple Music service and pay using airtime.

This makes the process particularly useful for people who have difficulty using Nigerian bank cards for international subscriptions.

In this guide, we’ll explain how to subscribe to Apple Music with MTN, the available subscription options, how much it costs, how to activate it through USSD or SMS, how to use it on an iPhone or Android phone, how auto-renewal works and what to do if your subscription doesn’t activate.

Can You Subscribe to Apple Music With MTN?

Yes.

MTN Nigeria currently offers Apple Music subscriptions to its customers through its Apple Music service on MTN Play. MTN states that both prepaid and postpaid customers can use the service, and it is available on both iOS and Android devices. 

The major advantage is that you don’t necessarily need a debit card to subscribe through MTN.

MTN’s Apple Music page specifically states that customers can be charged directly from their airtime balance. 

That means you can subscribe using airtime on your MTN line instead of trying to enter international card details.

How Much Is Apple Music With MTN?

MTN’s current Apple Music information lists a ₦1,000 paid subscription for 30 days. 

However, MTN’s Apple Music pages can display different promotional or package pricing depending on the offer available through MTN Play. For example, the current MTN Play Apple Music page also displays a ₦1,300 package option. 

Therefore, check the price displayed at the point of subscription before confirming payment rather than relying on an old price from a blog or social media post.

MTN has also offered promotional Apple Music deals to customers, including free access for eligible customers. Availability can change over time.

Can You Get Apple Music for Free With MTN?

MTN’s Apple Music service currently lists a six-month free option for eligible customers.

According to MTN, customers can activate the free offer by sending:

MUSIC

to:

8000

The free offer is listed as valid for the first 180 days after activation. 

However, eligibility requirements apply.

MTN states that customers whose numbers have not been successfully linked to a valid NIN cannot activate the six-month free Apple Music offer. 

So if you try to activate the offer and receive an eligibility message, check your NIN linkage status with MTN.

How to Subscribe to Apple Music With MTN Using USSD

One of the easiest ways to subscribe is through MTN USSD.

Step 1: Make Sure You Have Enough Airtime

If you’re subscribing to the paid Apple Music plan, make sure your MTN line has enough airtime to cover the displayed subscription price.

Remember that your Apple Music subscription and your internet data are separate.

You need an active internet connection to stream or download content through the Apple Music app.

Step 2: Dial the Apple Music USSD Code

Dial:

*447#

MTN’s Apple Music instructions currently state that you should select:

2 — New Services

Then select:

4 — Apple Music

You’ll then see the available Apple Music options. 

Step 3: Choose Your Subscription

MTN currently lists:

1 — Free

2 — Paid

Select the option you are eligible for and want to use.

If you choose the paid option, make sure you have enough airtime before confirming.

Step 4: Confirm Your Subscription

Follow the prompts displayed on your screen.

Once the subscription is successfully processed, MTN will send confirmation information to your line.

You may then be directed to a link that helps you complete the Apple Music activation process. 

How to Subscribe to Apple Music With MTN Using SMS

You can also activate Apple Music through SMS.

For the free six-month offer, MTN currently says to send:

MUSIC

to:

8000

For the paid version, send:

P

to:

8000. 

After sending the request, MTN says you will receive a confirmation process that requires you to consent before the subscription is activated.

If you send MUSIC to 8000, for example, MTN says you’ll receive a confirmation page. Once you accept, an SMS containing a URL will be sent to you so you can continue the activation process. 

How to Subscribe to Apple Music Through MTN Play

Another option is to use the MTN Play website.

MTN Play currently provides an Apple Music page where customers can select a package and begin the subscription process. The platform allows customers to choose a payment method and confirm the transaction. 

To use this method:

1. Open MTN Play.
2. Find Apple Music.
3. Select the subscription package you want.
4. Click Subscribe.
5. Choose your preferred payment method.
6. Confirm the transaction.
7. Follow the activation instructions.

MTN Play says available payment options can include airtime, cards, transfers and MoMo, depending on the service and payment flow presented to you. 

For someone specifically looking to pay with MTN airtime, however, the USSD or SMS options may be more straightforward.

How to Subscribe to Apple Music Through the myMTN App

MTN also lists the myMTN NG app as one of the channels through which customers can subscribe to Apple Music. 

If you already use the app, open it and look through the available entertainment or value-added services for Apple Music.

The exact layout may change as MTN updates the app, so you may not see exactly the same menus described in older tutorials.

The myMTN NG app is available on both Android and iOS, and MTN says it supports payments and multiple payment options. 

How to Use Apple Music After Subscribing With MTN

Subscribing through MTN doesn’t mean you need a separate MTN music app.

Apple Music is still accessed through the Apple Music app.

On iPhone

1. Open the App Store.
2. Search for Apple Music if it isn’t already installed.
3. Install or open the app.
4. Sign in with your Apple Account if required.
5. Follow the activation instructions provided after your MTN subscription.

On Android

Apple Music is also available for Android devices.

MTN says its Apple Music service supports Android 5.0 or later, as well as compatible Chromebooks that support Android apps. 

Download Apple Music from Google Play, open the app and complete the activation process associated with your MTN subscription.

Do You Need a Debit Card to Subscribe With MTN?

No.

That’s one of the main advantages of using MTN’s Apple Music subscription option.

MTN specifically says customers do not require a debit card when subscribing through its Apple Music service because the subscription can be charged directly to their airtime balance. 

This can be useful if your bank card isn’t enabled for international transactions or if you simply prefer paying with airtime.

It’s also worth noting that Apple itself lists Nigeria’s supported Apple Account payment methods as Apple Account balance and most credit and debit cards. MTN’s Apple Music billing arrangement is therefore distinct from simply adding MTN as an Apple Account payment method. 

Does MTN Apple Music Include Internet Data?

Not necessarily.

Your Apple Music subscription gives you access to the music service, but you still need an internet connection to stream music.

MTN’s Apple Music FAQ specifically states that customers need internet access to stream or download music through the Apple Music app. 

You can use:

• MTN mobile data
• Wi-Fi
• Another available internet connection

If you’re using mobile data frequently, remember that music streaming can consume a significant amount of data.

MTN recommends downloading music for offline listening if you want to reduce cellular data consumption. It also provides Apple Music settings that allow you to control cellular streaming quality. 

How to Download Apple Music for Offline Listening

If you have an active Apple Music subscription, you can download music while connected to Wi-Fi and listen to it later without continuously streaming over mobile data.

This can be particularly useful if you’re using MTN data and want to control your monthly data consumption.

For example, you can download your favourite albums or playlists while connected to Wi-Fi, then listen to them later when you’re outside.

Keep in mind that downloaded Apple Music content remains tied to your active subscription.

Does MTN Apple Music Auto-Renew?

Yes.

MTN says auto-renewal is available for its Apple Music subscription. However, the subscription renews automatically only if you select auto-renewal when subscribing and don’t subsequently unsubscribe. 

This means you should pay attention to the renewal option when subscribing.

If you don’t want MTN to deduct airtime automatically in the future, make sure you understand whether auto-renewal is enabled.

How to Cancel MTN Apple Music Subscription

If you no longer want Apple Music through MTN, you can unsubscribe.

MTN currently provides several SMS commands for opting out.

You can send any of the following to:

8000

• STOP MUSIC
• NO MUSIC
• END MUSIC
• CANCEL MUSIC
• OPT OUT

MTN lists these as available ways to unsubscribe from its Apple Music service. 

If you cancel before the end of your current subscription period, MTN says you can continue enjoying Apple Music until the subscription expires. 

What Happens If You Cancel Before Your Subscription Expires?

Cancelling your subscription doesn’t necessarily mean you immediately lose access.

MTN states that if you unsubscribe before the end of the six-month free period, you can continue enjoying Apple Music until the offer expires. 

The same principle of retaining access for the remaining subscription period can apply depending on the specific subscription arrangement.

The key difference is that you’re stopping future renewal rather than necessarily terminating the remaining time you’ve already paid for.

Can You Subscribe to Apple Music With MTN on Multiple Numbers?

There are restrictions on the six-month free Apple Music offer.

MTN states that if you have multiple MTN numbers linked to the same NIN, only one MSISDN can be used to activate the six-month free Apple Music offer. 

Therefore, you shouldn’t expect to activate the same free offer on every MTN number registered to your NIN.

Can You Transfer Your MTN Apple Music Subscription?

Yes, MTN says the Apple Music subscription can be transferred to another eligible MTN number linked to the same NIN.

According to MTN, you can initiate the transfer by sending:

Change*234 YourMSISDN

to:

8000

Both the person transferring the subscription and the recipient receive notifications. 

However, MTN states that you cannot transfer the subscription to an MSISDN associated with a different NIN.

What If You Don’t Receive the Apple Music Confirmation Message?

Sometimes the activation process may not complete immediately.

MTN says that if you sent MUSIC to 8000 but didn’t receive the required confirmation of interest, you can dial:

*447*3#

to complete the subscription journey. 

If that doesn’t resolve the issue, check that:

• Your MTN line is active.
• Your NIN is correctly linked where required.
• You have sufficient airtime for a paid subscription.
• You entered the correct SMS keyword.
• Your Apple Music app is installed.
• Your internet connection is working.

If the problem continues, MTN says customers can contact support by calling 180, emailing customer care or visiting an MTN walk-in centre. 

Why Isn’t My MTN Apple Music Subscription Working?

There are several possible reasons.

Your NIN isn’t linked correctly

MTN states that customers who haven’t successfully linked their line to a valid NIN may be unable to activate the six-month free Apple Music offer. 

You don’t have enough airtime

If you’re activating a paid plan, make sure your airtime balance is sufficient.

You’re using the wrong activation method

Double-check the SMS keyword or USSD sequence.

Your Apple Music app isn’t installed

The MTN activation process may direct you to the App Store or Google Play if Apple Music isn’t already installed on your device. 

Your subscription hasn’t completed activation

Follow the confirmation link or consent process sent by MTN rather than simply opening Apple Music and assuming the subscription has already been connected.

Can You Subscribe to Apple Music Student or Family Plans With MTN?

MTN’s current Apple Music FAQ states that Student and Family plans are not currently supported through its MTN Apple Music subscription arrangement. 

Therefore, if you’re specifically looking for a Student or Family subscription, you’ll need to check Apple’s available payment and subscription options for your Apple Account rather than assuming the MTN subscription covers those plans.

MTN Apple Music vs Paying Apple Directly

There are two different approaches Nigerian users should understand.

Subscribe through MTN

You can use MTN’s Apple Music service and pay through the available MTN payment method, including airtime for the relevant subscription.

This is convenient if you don’t want to use a debit card.

Subscribe directly through Apple

You can also subscribe through Apple using a payment method supported for your Apple Account’s country or region.

Apple currently lists Apple Account balance and most credit and debit cards as payment methods for Nigeria. 

If you’re subscribing directly through Apple, your Apple Account’s region and payment method need to be compatible.

For Nigerians who specifically want to pay using MTN airtime, however, the MTN subscription route is the more relevant option.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the code to subscribe to Apple Music on MTN?

Dial *447#, select 2 for New Services, then 4 for Apple Music, and follow the prompts. 

Can I subscribe to Apple Music with MTN airtime?

Yes. MTN says you can pay for its Apple Music subscription directly from your airtime balance. 

How do I activate the free six-month Apple Music offer on MTN?

Send MUSIC to 8000, then follow the confirmation process. Eligibility requirements apply, including successful NIN linkage. 

How much is Apple Music on MTN?

MTN’s Apple Music FAQ currently lists the paid version at ₦1,000 for 30 days, while its current MTN Play page also displays a ₦1,300 package option. Because promotional/package pricing can change, check the amount displayed before confirming your subscription. 

Do I need a debit card?

No. MTN says its Apple Music subscription can be charged directly from your airtime balance. 

Can I use MTN Apple Music on Android?

Yes. MTN states that Apple Music is available through its service on both Android and iOS devices. 

Can I use MTN Apple Music on an iPhone?

Yes. You can activate the service through MTN and use Apple Music on your iPhone.

Does MTN Apple Music renew automatically?

Yes, if you select the auto-renewal option when subscribing and don’t cancel it afterward. 

How do I cancel Apple Music on MTN?

Send STOP MUSIC, NO MUSIC, END MUSIC, CANCEL MUSIC or OPT OUT to 8000. 

Can I subscribe to Apple Music Family with MTN?

MTN’s current FAQ says Student and Family plans are not supported through its MTN Apple Music subscription service. 

Final Thoughts

Subscribing to Apple Music with MTN is a convenient option for Nigerians who want access to Apple’s music service without relying on a debit or credit card.

The simplest methods are through USSD, SMS, the myMTN NG app or MTN Play. For the USSD option, dial *447#, choose New Services, then Apple Music, and follow the instructions. You can also send P to 8000 for the paid option or MUSIC to 8000 if you’re eligible for MTN’s six-month free offer. 

If you use the paid subscription, make sure you have enough airtime and check whether auto-renewal is enabled. If you don’t want future deductions, cancel the service before the next renewal.

Most importantly, remember that an Apple Music subscription and internet access are separate. You’ll still need mobile data or Wi-Fi to stream music unless you’ve downloaded your songs for offline listening.

For anyone looking for a simple way to access Apple Music in Nigeria, MTN’s airtime-based subscription provides a convenient alternative to paying for the service directly with a bank card.