To download iTunes on Windows 11, open Microsoft Store, search for iTunes, and select Get. Apple now offers iTunes for Windows through the Microsoft Store, and it installs and updates like any other Store app. Before you install it, though, check whether you need it: Apple has split iTunes into three newer apps for Windows, Apple Music, Apple TV and Apple Devices, and says iTunes is now for podcasts and audiobooks.
Applies to: Windows 11. Checked against Apple Support on September 30, 2026.
Do you need iTunes or the newer apps?
Apple’s support page for Windows lists four apps. Use this to decide which to install:
- Apple Music: listen to and manage your music library, including songs you bought from the iTunes Store, and stream Apple Music if you subscribe.
- Apple TV: watch movies and TV shows you bought or rented, and stream Apple TV if you subscribe.
- Apple Devices: update, back up, restore and sync an iPhone or iPad.
- iTunes: manage podcasts and audiobooks.
Most people who want music now use the Apple Music app instead. For the steps, see how to listen to Apple Music on Windows 11.
Download iTunes from the Microsoft Store
- Select Start, type Microsoft Store, and open it.
- Search for iTunes.
- Make sure the publisher is Apple Inc., and then select Get. If you’re asked to sign in, use your Microsoft account.
- Wait for iTunes to download and install. Then select Open, or find iTunes in Start > All.
The first time you open iTunes, it asks you to accept Apple’s license agreement. After that, you can sign in with your Apple Account from the Account menu if you want your purchases.
Why download from the Microsoft Store?
- It’s the version Apple points to. Apple’s download page for Windows links to the Microsoft Store for iTunes and the newer apps.
- Updates are automatic. The Store keeps iTunes up to date, and you can check for updates in Microsoft Store > Downloads.
- It’s safer. Downloading from the Store avoids fake download sites that bundle unwanted software.
Apple also lists an older standalone iTunes installer (version 12.10.11) for Windows 7 and later on its support site. It’s meant for older versions of Windows. On Windows 11, use the Store version.
Update iTunes
- Open Microsoft Store.
- Select Downloads at the bottom left (it may be called Library on some versions).
- Select Get updates. If an iTunes update is waiting, it downloads and installs.
You can also let the Store update apps automatically. Select your profile picture in the Store, select Settings, and turn on App updates.
If iTunes won’t install or open
- The Get button does nothing. Close and reopen the Store, check your internet connection, and make sure Windows is up to date in Settings > Windows Update.
- iTunes opens but won’t start properly. Repair it. Select Start > Settings > Apps > Installed apps, select More options (…) next to iTunes, select Advanced options, and then select Repair. If that doesn’t help, select Reset, which clears the app’s settings.
- You already have the Apple Music app. iTunes won’t open your music library while Apple’s newer apps are handling it. Use Apple Music for songs and iTunes for podcasts and audiobooks.
- Still not working. Uninstall iTunes, restart your PC and install it again from the Store. See how to uninstall a program in Windows 11.
If you use a work or school PC, your organization may block Store apps. In that case, ask your IT administrator.
Use iTunes for podcasts and audiobooks
- Open iTunes.
- Select the pop-up menu at the top left, which shows Music by default, and choose Podcasts or Audiobooks. If they’re not listed, choose Edit Menu and turn them on.
- For podcasts, select Store to find shows, or Library to see the shows you follow. Select a show and then an episode to play it.
- For audiobooks, select Library to see audiobooks you’ve bought, and double-click one to start listening.
Moving your music to Apple Music
If you install the Apple Music app, it can use the music library you built in iTunes, so you don’t need to copy songs across. After that, play and manage your music in Apple Music, and keep iTunes for podcasts and audiobooks. Your purchases stay linked to your Apple Account either way.
Where iTunes keeps your files
The Store version of iTunes stores its library in your Music folder, in a folder called iTunes. Keep that folder when you move to a new PC or reinstall, because it holds your library file and any music you added.
Frequently asked questions
Is iTunes free on Windows 11?
Yes. iTunes and Apple’s other Windows apps are free to download. Buying music or movies, or subscribing to Apple Music or Apple TV, costs extra.
Does iTunes still sync my iPhone?
Apple now points Windows users to the Apple Devices app for updating, backing up and syncing an iPhone or iPad.
Can I use iTunes without an Apple Account?
Yes, for playing music and podcasts you already have on your PC. You need an Apple Account to buy content or use Apple Music.
What happened to iTunes on Mac?
On a Mac, iTunes was replaced by separate apps years ago. The Windows apps follow the same idea.
Next steps
Apple lists all four Windows apps on its page Download Apple Music, Apple TV, Apple Devices, and iTunes for Windows.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.