Microsoft integrates with Apple TV, Apple Music, iCloud Photos

By Chisom Nwatu

…to enable iPhone users connect seamlessly on Windows 11

Global software giant Microsoft on Wednesday announced that dedicated Apple Music and Apple TV apps will be available on Windows devices come 2023.

The standalone Apple Music and Apple TV apps will provide a much–improved experience for Windows users who use these services, Microsoft said during its Surface event.

The Apple Music app is now available on the Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, and Xbox One, allowing subscribers to listen to music while gaming. Last year, Apple Music was released on the PlayStation 5.

Currently, Windows users must access the Apple TV+ streaming service on the web at tv.apple.com, while Apple Music is available on the web or within the antiquated iTunes for Windows app.

However, Microsoft said previews of both apps will be available on the Microsoft Store starting later this year.

The software giant also told viewers that iCloud Photos integration will be coming to the Photos app on Windows 11 devices later this year.

“We’re excited to announce that we’re making it easier than ever for you to access your iPhone photos and videos, and the entertainment you love from Apple on Xbox consoles and Windows devices,” Microsoft said in a blog post.

Through a new integration with iCloud and the Photos app in Windows 11, users will be able to sync photos and manage their library on PC just like on Mac. An iCloud Photo Sync option will be added to the iCloud for Windows app.

“It’s seamless, just install the iCloud for Windows app from the Microsoft Store and choose to sync your iCloud Photos,” the company said.

This integration into the Photos app will provide a much richer experience, closer to the experience that Apple users enjoy with iCloud Photos on the Mac.

Microsoft further noted that its Windows Insider’s beta testers can try out the new feature now, with a public launch coming in the next few months. The software giant wants to bring more people into Windows through these types of integrations, more like to improve their experience across all the devices they use.

Apple TV, Apple Music, and iCloud Photos are always available from Windows, but neither service provides direct, easy access. These steps will help Apple-delayed users who seem to be putting less effort into making it easier to access outside of the Apple ecosystem.