Apple Music AutoMix Is Exciting, But Not Without Its Flaws

Apple Music AutoMix has become one of the most talked-about features in the iOS 26 public beta—and for good reason. It promises a DJ-like music experience that smartly blends songs using AI. If you’ve ever wanted seamless transitions while streaming your playlists, this feature delivers exactly that. Apple Music AutoMix went viral after its debut at WWDC, with users sharing clips of perfectly beat-matched transitions. But there's a major question circulating online: does the fun of AutoMix come at the cost of full song playback?

Why Apple Music AutoMix Is Going Viral

The AI-powered AutoMix function isn’t just a fancy crossfade—it's a smart mixing tool that recreates the fluidity of a live DJ set. When Apple released iOS 26’s public beta, early adopters quickly noticed how AutoMix enhanced the vibe of their favorite playlists. Songs flow into each other with minimal interruption, creating a party-like feel even during solo listening. For users comparing music apps like Spotify and Apple Music, this upgrade gives Apple a serious competitive edge. It’s the kind of innovation that grabs attention—and earns loyalty.

What Users Love and What Needs Fixing

Despite its popularity, Apple Music AutoMix has drawn criticism for one recurring issue: it cuts songs short. Users on Reddit and TikTok have been vocal about AutoMix trimming the final 20 to 30 seconds of tracks as it prepares the next song. While this makes transitions smoother, it frustrates listeners who enjoy every last beat of their music. For some, this trade-off is acceptable in the name of flow. For others, it’s a deal-breaker—especially for genres where endings are integral to the song’s impact.

Will Apple Fix AutoMix Before iOS 26 Launch?

With iOS 26 expected to launch in September, Apple has time to fine-tune AutoMix based on public beta feedback. The feature is clearly innovative and enhances the Apple Music experience in ways that standard crossfades can't. However, Apple may need to add a setting that allows users to control how early a song begins to mix. That kind of flexibility could turn a good feature into a great one—and ensure Apple Music AutoMix lives up to its full potential without cutting corners, or songs.