How to Fix iTunes Transfer Issues: Can't Add Music to iPhone?

If you can't add music to your iPhone to your iPhone, don't worry—you're not alone. Many users encounter this issue due to outdated software, syncing problems, or even compatibility issues. The good news? You can resolve it in minutes using the right methods. Below, we’ll explore why this happens and how you can fix it, with or without iTunes. For a quick, hassle-free solution, try WALTR PRO to transfer music from your computer to your iPhone without limitations.

Why Can’t I Add Songs to My iPhone?

Several reasons might cause this issue, ranging from software conflicts to incorrect settings. Here are the most common scenarios you might encounter:

• Apple Music subscription conflicts: If you’re using Apple Music, the Sync Library feature might overwrite manual transfers, preventing you from adding music to iTunes or your iPhone.
• Third-party app interference: Apps that manage your music library can sometimes block iTunes or other transfer methods.
• Outdated iTunes or iOS version: Older versions might not sync properly, making it hard to transfer music from iTunes to iPhone.
• Syncing errors: iTunes may fail to recognize your device when you try to transfer music from computer to iPhone or iTunes to iPhone.
• Incorrect file formats: Your files might not be in a format supported by iTunes or iPhones (e.g., MOV or WMV files). You can find out how to move WMV to MP4 and ensure file compatibility.
• iCloud Music Library enabled: This setting can block manual music transfers. If it’s enabled, you won’t be able to add music to iPhone directly from your computer or iTunes.
• Insufficient storage: Your iPhone might not have enough free space.

Understanding why you can’t add songs is the first step to fixing it. Let’s explore your options to resolve it quickly.

5 Solutions to Fix "Can't Add Songs to iPhone"

№1. Update iTunes and iOS

Ensure you’re running the latest versions of iTunes and iOS. Apple frequently updates its software to fix bugs and improve compatibility. Running older versions could be why your music isn’t syncing.

For Windows, open iTunes and click Help > Check for Updates. For Mac users, check for updates in the App Store under the Updates tab.

Note: If you're using Windows 11, you'll need to update iTunes through the Microsoft Store app. Open the Microsoft Store, click on your Library, and then click "Get updates."

On your iPhone, go to Settings > General > Software Update. If there’s a newer iOS version, download and install it. Once both iTunes and your iPhone are up to date, try adding your songs again.

№2. Check Your iCloud Music Library

Like it or not – but you can't manually add music to your iPhone if you have iCloud Music Library on. Make sure you disable it.

Open up Settings on your iPhone, select Music, and tap on Sync Library (or iCloud Music Library) to turn it off. Done!

The downside is that you won't be able to listen to music from your iCloud Music Library. That's just how Apple made this work, and it's bittersweet if you ask me.

If you’re trying to sync music on your iPod, WALTR PRO works just as seamlessly for iPod transfers as it does for iPhones.

№3. Verify Audio Format Compatibility

Apple supports AIFF, CAF, MP3, MP4, WAV, AAC, and Apple Lossless. However, there is no support for FLAC, OGG, and other widely popular music formats, and it's not coming anytime soon.

That's a dead end. You won’t be able to transfer music from iTunes to iPhone if your files are in unsupported formats like FLAC, APE, or WMA. The only way out is to really use third-party software. If you're trying to transfer MOV to MP4 for compatibility, this is one of the first steps to ensure your files work smoothly with iTunes or your Apple device.

This could also explain why some iTunes songs are greyed out. iTunes marks unsupported and corrupted tracks, as well as those that have not been properly synced, this way. 

Check if you have an Apple-compatible audio format. You will either see it in the file's extension or if you right-click on the file and select “Get info.”

№4. Use WALTR PRO to Transfer Music to iPhone Without iTunes

WALTR PRO is a 3rd party tool to add music files to your iPhone from your computer.

Skip iTunes entirely with WALTR PRO. This app allows you to transfer music from your computer to your iPhone in seconds—no compatibility issues, no syncing errors.

How to Use WALTR PRO:

1. Download and install WALTR PRO on your computer.

WALTR PRO works on both – Mac and Windows. It has a free trial, so you can fully experience how it handles music transfer from your computer to iPhone without iTunes. You can download it for free below:

WALTR PRO

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Install and launch the app. If you are unsure whether this app is right for you, read WALTR PRO press reviews. MacWorld rated WALTR 4/5 stars.

2. Connect your iPhone via USB or Wi-Fi.

Now, take your standard USB cable and plug it into your computer. WALTR PRO will see it right away; you only have to tap ‘Trust” on your device.

You can even set up an automatic Wi-Fi connection by heading to Settings in the menu bar > Wi-Fi and selecting your device. It’s that simple!

3. Drag and drop your favorite songs into the app.

Drag & drop your music into WALTR PRO. This awesome app supports transferring from PC to iPhone. Plus, it supports many popular formats such as swapping ts to mp4, and even transferring h.264 to mp4, and more!

4. Сustomize Your Media Download

Once you've selected your media, you have the option to personalize it before downloading. Here's how:

1. Edit Metadata – Hold the Ctrl (Windows) or ⌥ (Mac) key to modify metadata, such as title, artist, or album information.
2. Select Alternative Apps or Locations – Hold the Alt key to choose a different application or destination for your download.

(Optional) Step 4.5: Fill Metadata with AI

Use WALTR PRO's AI feature to automatically fetch and fill in the metadata, saving time and ensuring accuracy.

5. WALTR PRO will transfer and convert files automatically.

WALTR PRO is the perfect iTunes alternative for those who want to transfer music from computer to iPhone without limitations. The app has built-in smart file recognition technology. If you transfer an ebook, a music file, or a movie, they will all land in their proper Apple folders. That's an easy way to manage music and videos!

But wait, there's more.

In addition, WALTR PRO can add music to your iPhone via Wi-Fi. In fact, all you need to do is to click on a Settings button in WALTR PRO and check “Enable Wi-Fi Connectivity”.

Next time, you don't even need to connect your iPhone to a computer. WALTR PRO will see the device immediately. So, if iTunes doesn't transfer music to your iPhone, don't worry; WALTR PRO will keep you covered.

№5. Free Up Storage Space

Your iPhone needs enough available storage to accommodate new music files. If your device is full, you’ll need to clear some space before adding songs.

To check your storage, go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage. Here, you’ll see a list of apps and files taking up space. Delete unused apps, clear cached data, and remove old photos or videos to free up storage.

Don’t forget to empty the Recently Deleted Photos folder for additional space.

Why Avoid Online Tools for Music Transfer?

Online tools for transferring or converting music might look appealing, but they often come with hidden issues. Most online platforms require an internet connection, which can make the process slow or unreliable, especially for larger files. Many of these tools have limitations on file size, restricting the number of songs or the quality you can transfer. Privacy is another concern—when you upload your files to a third-party server, you risk exposing your data to security breaches.

A dedicated app like WALTR PRO provides a safer, faster, and more dependable alternative for transferring music directly from your computer to your iPhone, without relying on external servers or facing compatibility problems.

Why WALTR PRO Is the Best Way to Add Music to iPhone

When traditional methods like iTunes fail, WALTR PRO offers a reliable, user-friendly alternative. Here’s why:

• No format restrictions: WALTR PRO supports all popular audio formats.
• Faster transfers: Move files in seconds—no syncing required.
• Wireless compatibility: Transfer music without cables via Wi-Fi.
• All-in-one tool: Add videos, ringtones, and more alongside your music.

Thousands of iOS users trust WALTR PRO to simplify data transfer and avoid iTunes-related headaches. According to a recent survey, 87% of users reported faster and smoother transfers compared to traditional methods. One user commented, "WALTR PRO saved me hours of frustration—it's a game-changer for music lovers!"

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Conclusion: Get Back to Your Music

Adding music to your iPhone doesn’t have to be a frustrating experience. Whether you update your iTunes library, disable iTunes Match, or switch to WALTR PRO, you have multiple solutions at your fingertips.

Want the quickest and easiest solution? Download WALTR PRO today and transfer your music hassle-free. Say goodbye to syncing errors and enjoy your favorite songs anytime, anywhere.

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