Apple Music now includes AutoMix, a new feature in iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe 26, and visionOS 26 that creates smooth, DJ-style transitions between songs. Unlike crossfade, which uses a fixed overlap, AutoMix adapts transitions based on tempo, genre, and track compatibility. This makes playlists and mixes flow more naturally, especially with Apple Music subscription tracks.
Before you turn it on, it’s important to understand where AutoMix is supported and how it differs from crossfade. AutoMix requires an Apple Music subscription and only works on iPhone, iPad, Apple Vision Pro, and Apple Silicon Macs. Crossfade is more widely available, including for non-subscribers, but it is predictable and does not adapt to the music.
AutoMix vs. crossfade explained
- AutoMix dynamically blends Apple Music subscription tracks with intelligent transitions. It may skip transitions for albums played in order, songs with mismatched tempos, or uploads not matched in Apple’s catalog.
- Crossfade overlaps songs for a set duration, which you can adjust. It works consistently with supported devices but lacks the adaptability of AutoMix.
Compatibility and availability
- AutoMix requires an Apple Music subscription and is supported on:
- iPhone, iPad, and Apple Vision Pro with iOS 26 or later
- Apple Silicon Macs with macOS Tahoe 26 or later
- Not supported for AutoMix: Intel-based Macs, Apple TV, Apple Watch, HomePod, Apple Music for Android, or Apple Music for Windows.
- Crossfade works on iPhone, iPad, Vision Pro, and Mac, even without a subscription.
- Neither feature works during AirPlay playback.
How to enable or disable AutoMix and crossfade
You can set your default transition style in system settings, or quickly toggle AutoMix inside the Music app.
iPhone, iPad, and Apple Vision Pro
To set the default transition style:
- Open Settings.
- Go to Apps > Music > Song Transitions.
- Turn Song Transitions on.
- Choose AutoMix or Crossfade.
- If you select Crossfade, use the slider to adjust duration.
- Turn off Song Transitions to disable both features.
To toggle while listening:
- Open the Music app and start playback.
- Tap the MiniPlayer.
- Tap Up Next.
- Tap AutoMix to turn it on or off for that session.
Mac
To set the default transition style:
- Open the Music app.
- In the menu bar, select Music > Settings.
- Go to the Playback tab.
- Under Song Transitions, choose AutoMix or Crossfade.
- Adjust the slider if you choose crossfade.
To toggle while listening:
- Open the Music app and play a track.
- Click the Up Next button in the playback controls.
- Click AutoMix to enable or disable it for your queue.
FAQ
Why don’t I see AutoMix?
You need iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe 26, or visionOS 26, an Apple Music subscription, and a supported device. AutoMix won’t appear on Intel Macs, Apple TV, Apple Watch, HomePod, Windows, or Android.
Why does AutoMix sometimes not apply transitions?
That’s normal. It skips transitions for sequential album playback, unmatched uploads, or tracks with clashing tempos.
Can I use AutoMix and crossfade together?
No. You can only use one transition style at a time.
Where do I change the crossfade duration?
- On iPhone, iPad, or Vision Pro: Settings > Music > Song Transitions.
- On Mac: Music > Settings > Playback.
Does AutoMix work with my personal uploads?
No. AutoMix only works with songs available in the Apple Music catalog.
