: iTunes Plus files include "iTunes-style" metadata, which stores cover art, lyrics, and track information within the M4A container. 2. Historical Context: The Move to DRM-Free Intro to the iTunes Store in Music on Mac - Apple Support
: Most modern hardware and software players released in the last decade natively support .m4a AAC files. Top Sources for iTunes Plus AAC M4A
| Site | Notes | |------|-------| | | Original source. Purchased tracks download as DRM‑free 256 kbps AAC M4A. (Streaming from Apple Music is DRM‑protected.) | | Bandcamp | Many artists offer AAC/M4A downloads when you buy digital. Check format options before purchase. | | 7digital | Sells 256 kbps AAC M4A in many regions. Good for mainstream and independent music. | | Qobuz | Primarily FLAC/ALAC, but select tracks can be downloaded as 320 kbps MP3 or AAC — check per release. | | HDtracks | Mostly lossless, but sometimes offers AAC. Not a primary source. |