Apple Music gets a DJ feel with AutoMix feature

With iOS 26, Apple is bringing some exciting new features to Apple Music. In addition to a fresh design, there's now a feature called AutoMix. This is designed to automatically and seamlessly transition songs into one another, almost like a DJ set. This feature is aimed at those who prefer to listen to music without harsh transitions and value a smooth flow between songs.

iOS 26 will be released this fall, but is already available in a beta version for developers. Apple Music users will get a number of practical features with the update. AutoMix is a particular highlight, as it not only replaces the previous crossfade but also significantly advances the technology. The feature has received a lot of praise on social media. Users report that it works amazingly well and is a real upgrade to the listening experience.

It is important to note that AutoMix is intended exclusively for Apple Music subscribers.

What is AutoMix?

AutoMix is a new feature in Apple Music introduced with iOS 26. Its goal is to make song transitions feel like a professional DJ set. Apple uses time stretching and beat matching to achieve this. Rather than simply crossfading songs, it analyzes them. The key and tempo of the tracks are taken into account to find the perfect moment for the transition. As soon as one song ends, the next one automatically begins with a matching beat. This ensures a continuous flow of music, without any abrupt cuts. AutoMix replaces the previously familiar crossfade function.

How does AutoMix work?

The technology behind AutoMix is based on analyzing music data. iOS detects the tempo and key of each song and calculates how best to combine them. The transitions happen automatically; you don't have to adjust anything manually. You can enable AutoMix directly in Apple Music after updating to iOS 26. It's not a feature that's part of Apple Intelligence, so you don't need a new iPhone model. AutoMix also works on older devices—all you need is an active Apple Music subscription and the new operating system.

First impressions from the developer beta

AutoMix is already included in the current developer beta. Initial feedback from the community, for example on Reddit , has been overwhelmingly positive. Many users write that they are impressed by how well the transitions work. AutoMix is cited there as one of the best features in iOS 26. They particularly emphasize that the transitions truly sound like a DJ and not like a simple crossfade.

More new features in Apple Music with iOS 26

In addition to AutoMix, Apple Music in iOS 26 brings a number of other new features. The new lyrics translation is particularly useful. If you listen to songs in another language, you can have the lyrics translated. There's also a pronunciation assist feature so you can sing along correctly. You can now also pin playlists to the top of the Music app. These pinned playlists can be accessed directly from the home or lock screen using a new widget. This saves you scrolling and keeps your favorite songs always at hand. Apple Music's design has also been redesigned. It now features a so-called Liquid Glass look that is more modern and fluid than before.

When will iOS 26 be released?

The public beta of iOS 26 will be available in July. The final update will be released alongside the new iPhones in the fall. If you use Apple Music and are interested in new features, the update is definitely worth it—especially because of AutoMix.

AutoMix and more: How Apple Music is changing

Apple Music continues to evolve with iOS 26 and offers AutoMix, a feature many have been requesting. Automatically connecting songs works better than the old Crossfade and adds real value—especially for playlists with mixed genres or tempos. There are also handy extras like lyrics translations, pronunciation guides, and pinned playlists. If you're a regular Apple Music user, you'll likely quickly appreciate the new features. All you need is iOS 26 and an active subscription. You can get started this fall—or sooner if you try the beta. (Image: Shutterstock / DANIEL CONSTANTE)