Apple Music hikes monthly fees, citing higher licensing costs.

Apple Music has raised subscription prices in several markets, marking the service’s first major price increase since 2022. The company said the change reflects higher music licensing costs, with the new pricing already in effect in markets where the service is available, including the United States.

In the U.S., the individual plan has increased from $10.99 to $11.99 a month, while the family plan has risen from $16.99 to $19.99. The student plan has also moved up, from $5.99 to $6.99 per month.

Apple said the adjustment was necessary because of “rising licensing costs,” a pressure point that has become increasingly visible across the streaming sector as platforms continue to balance subscriber growth with royalty obligations.

The move is likely to draw attention from consumers already facing higher prices across digital entertainment services. It also underscores the financial strain of music streaming, where licensing fees remain a central cost for platforms competing on catalog size, product features and global reach.

Apple Music has not publicly detailed whether further pricing changes are expected, but the increase comes at a time when streaming services are facing broader scrutiny over how revenue is shared with rights holders.