FLAC file import to Music App on macOS

Why, if you try to import FLAC files to the Music App, does it fail? More to the point, why doesn't it have the common courtesy to tell you it's not going to work -- instead of letting you try a few times thinking maybe it was a hiccup, or you hit the wrong button in the file select dialog?

Posted on Nov 24, 2025 6:47 PM

Similar questions

Can I import FLAC files into Apple Music in Sonoma on iMac 27? Can Apple Music in Sonoma on a 2019 iMac 27 import FLAC files? If so, how? [Re-Titled by Moderator]
2871 2
I am having difficulty importing my music library into Apple Music I've just bought a new M2 Macbook Air and am having difficulty importing my music library into Apple Music. I was previously using a 2017 Macbook Air with (I believe) Big Sur, and when I made that upgrade, I was able to import my music library from an itl file. However, I can't seem to import either the "Music Library" file that I copied over nor any saved itl file into the Sonoma version of Apple Music. All of my music is on the same external drive location, but there are thousands of duplicate files I had cleaned up in the library, as well as hundreds of playlists that would take a tremendous amount of time to recreate. Is there any way I can import this data? [Re-Titled by Moderator]
762 7
Exporting Apple Music Data to .xml File fails every time I am trying to export my Apple Music data to a .xml file but I get a message saying "We can't open the document Library.xml because we found a problem with its contents. No error detail available. Location: Line 2, Column:9" That's all there is! So because I can't open it, I can't correct it!... a lot of Mac users have had the same issue over a 3-year period but there has never been answer. Any ideas out there?
514 6

1 reply

Nov 24, 2025 6:51 PM in response to monist

It fails because the Music app does not support FLAC and never has. Apple uses its own lossless codec ALAC. If you think a message would be useful then suggest it to Apple. Click on this link for Apple products feedback links --> Product Feedback - Apple

Apple may not respond but your comment will be read.

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

FLAC file import to Music App on macOS

Welcome to Apple Support Community

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

Learn more Sign up