Playing iTunes Playlist Without Wi Fi or Cellular Connection

I have downloaded to my iPhone music that was legitimately purchased from the iTunes Store. If I play a single song with both Wi-Fi and Cellular switched off there is no problem, and the song plays. If I try to play a playlist with both Wi Fi and Cellular switched off I receive the message 'Connect to Wi-Fi or Cellular to Play Music', and the playlist does not play. Switching either Wi-Fi or Cellular back on resolves the problem.


Is there a way of getting the playlist to play without having either Wi-Fi of Cellular switched on? If I have already paid Apple for the songs why do I need to access Wi-Fi or Cellular to get them to play? If I am of range of Wi-Fi there are going to be Cellular data charges to listen to music I have already purchased.


I know this question has previously been asked but I have not seen a resolution. Any help would be appreciated.


iPhone 15 Pro Max, iOS 18

Posted on Aug 29, 2025 06:31 AM

Reply
1 reply

Sep 4, 2025 03:56 PM in response to DaveG2108

Re: "Playing iTunes Playlist Without Wi Fi or Cellular Connection

Is there a way of getting the playlist to play without having either Wi-Fi of Cellular switched on?"


Wondering if your purchased music has been permanently downloaded : (ie: Music is not a back-up service.)

See: About purchasing movies, TV shows, music, books, and ringtones from Apple - Apple Support

____

Else:

If you do not receive the assistance you seek from your post to this Apple (user-to-user) Community:

You may want to reach out to the experts on the Music Support team

(ie: online chat / phone / email etc. from the link at the bottom of their website.)

Music Support Website: Music - Official Apple Support

or

Feedback is welcomed.

You can send feedback to reach those who work on the Music software behind-the-scenes at Apple. All feedback is carefully read and logged, and if others are also experiencing similar issues, we may see an update that addresses those issues. The more feedback they receive on which devices and OS versions are affected, (if any) the more likely we will see an update.

Web-form for feedback: Feedback - Apple Music - Apple

Playing iTunes Playlist Without Wi Fi or Cellular Connection

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.