Q: How can I upgrade protected iTunes songs to iTunes Plus without iTunes Match?
Hi! I would like to convert my older protected songs purchased in the iTunes Store to iTunes Plus versions, but I do not currently subscribe to iTunes Match (nor am I interested in subscribing). I remember that back when iTunes Plus songs were initially offered, there was a way in the iTunes Store to convert protected AAC songs to iTunes Plus for $0.30 per song, but I do not see that option any more. Is there a way to perform that same paid conversion that was available previously? For reference, I am currently running iTunes 12.2.1.16 for Windows, 64 bit version. Thanks!
iPhone 6 Plus, iOS 8.4, iTunes 12.2.1.16
Posted on Aug 10, 2015 9:04 PM
You are correct it will only re-download your original version. There was a way to pay a small difference in cost and upgrade to Plus but Apple discontinued that several years ago. Now the only way is to subscribe to iTunes Match for a year.
If this is simply to negate the inconvenience of protection on the files don't forget you can burn protected files to an audio format CD which will behave as any other CD (though still of lower audio quality from the 128k original).
Posted on Aug 11, 2015 7:09 AM

