Finding the iTunes Store on an iPhone can be confusing for new users. The iTunes Store allows you to browse, purchase, and download music, movies, TV shows, audiobooks, and more right on your iPhone. Here are some quick answers about locating the iTunes Store app:
The iTunes Store App
The iTunes Store is no longer a separate app on newer iPhones. Starting with iOS 11 and iPhone models like the iPhone X, the iTunes Store was integrated directly into the App Store app. So to find and open the iTunes Store, just open the App Store app on your Home Screen.
Browsing the iTunes Store
Once in the App Store, tap on the “Today” tab at the bottom. Then scroll down until you see large icons for different media categories like Music, Movies, TV Shows, Audiobooks, etc. Tapping any of these icons will take you directly into the iTunes Store for that type of media.
Using the Search Bar
You can also search for specific content directly in the iTunes Store. At the bottom of the screen, tap on the “Search” tab to bring up the search bar. Type in the name of a song, album, movie, etc. that you want to find. This will show results from both the App Store and the iTunes Store.
Accessing iTunes Store Purchases
Media that you purchase or preorder in the iTunes Store is automatically available in the associated apps. For example, music purchases can be played in the Music app, movies and TV in the TV app, and audiobooks in the Books app. Your iTunes Store purchase history is also stored in your Apple ID account.
Using iTunes on a Computer
While the iTunes Store is now integrated into the App Store on iPhones, you can still access the full iTunes desktop experience on a Mac or Windows PC. Open the iTunes app on your computer to browse, purchase, and manage media just like before.
Important iTunes Store Features
Here are some key iTunes Store features to take advantage of on your iPhone:
- Huge catalog of over 75 million songs, movies, TV shows, apps, and more
- Purchase or rent media to watch/listen on your devices
- Preorder upcoming releases
- Automatic downloads to your devices
- Family Sharing allows access to purchases from up to 6 accounts
- Subscription options like Apple Music and Apple TV+
Troubleshooting Access to the iTunes Store
If you can’t access the iTunes Store on your iPhone, here are some troubleshooting steps:
- Check that your iPhone is updated to the latest iOS version. The iTunes Store requires iOS 11 or later.
- Make sure you have an internet connection on your iPhone. The iTunes Store requires an internet connection to browse and download content.
- Log out of the App Store, then log back in with your Apple ID. This can resolve any issues with your account.
- Restart your iPhone to clear out any bugs. Hold down the power button and slide to turn off. Then turn back on.
- Update your payment method for your Apple ID if you get errors related to payment.
- Contact Apple Support if issues persist for further troubleshooting.
Using iTunes Gift Cards
iTunes Gift Cards allow you to add store credit to your Apple ID account to make purchases from the iTunes Store. Here are some tips on using gift cards:
- Redeem gift card codes in the App Store under your account settings.
- Gift card credit can be used for any media purchases, subscriptions, Apple Music, iCloud storage upgrades, and more.
- Balance carries over and does not expire.
- Digital gift cards delivered by email can be redeemed on iPhone by following the redemption link.
- Only redeem gift cards from trusted sources to avoid scams.
Conclusion
The iTunes Store provides iPhone users with access to a vast library of media content to purchase or rent. While no longer a standalone app, the iTunes Store can be easily accessed from the App Store app. Simply open the App Store, tap the Today tab, and select a media category to start browsing and shopping. Your iTunes Store purchases will be conveniently available in the associated apps on your iPhone. Refer to Apple Support resources for any issues accessing the store.
| Media Type | App to Access Purchases |
|---|---|
| Music | Music |
| Movies | TV |
| TV Shows | TV |
| Audiobooks | Books |
