How to Disable Shuffle Playback on Apple Music
Apple Music’s shuffle mode can sometimes activate unexpectedly, disrupting the intended playback order of albums and playlists. Disabling it is straightforward once you locate the correct control, which varies by device.
Disable Shuffle on iPhone or Android
The control is within the player’s queue view.
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Open the Apple Music app and begin playing a song.
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Tap the Now Playing bar at the bottom to expand the full player screen.
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Tap the queue icon (lines with a play symbol) to view “Up Next.”
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Locate the Shuffle icon (two crossing arrows). If it is highlighted, tap it once to turn it off.
Important: If the shuffle and repeat controls are grayed out, disable AutoPlay from the same queue screen first.
Disable Shuffle on Mac
The toggle is in the main playback controls.
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Open the Music app on your Mac and start playback.
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In the control bar at the top center, click the Shuffle icon. When it is no longer highlighted, shuffle is off.
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Alternatively, use the menu bar: Controls > Shuffle to uncheck it.
Disable Shuffle on Windows (iTunes/Apple Music App)
The process is similar to Mac.
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Open the Apple Music app or iTunes and play a song.
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Click the Shuffle icon in the playback controls so it is not highlighted.
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You can also use the menu: Controls > Shuffle to toggle it off.
Why Shuffle May Reactivate and How to Fix It
Shuffle might turn back on due to several common reasons:
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Playlist Default: Tapping “Play” on a playlist configured to shuffle will start it in shuffle mode. Tap a specific song within it instead.
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AutoPlay Interference: The AutoPlay feature can lock shuffle controls. Ensure it is turned off.
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Device-Specific Memory: Shuffle settings are sometimes remembered per device; disabling it on your phone does not affect your computer.
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App Glitch: A simple app or device restart often resolves persistent issues.
Advanced Troubleshooting
If shuffle consistently re-enables:
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Update the Apple Music app and your device’s operating system.
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As a last resort, uninstall and reinstall the Apple Music app.
Conclusion
Controlling shuffle in Apple Music requires knowing where the shuffle icon is located within the player queue (mobile) or playback controls (desktop). Managing the AutoPlay setting is also crucial. By following these steps, you can ensure your music plays in its intended order.
