Many users often find themselves confused about the difference between Apple Store Gift Cards and Itunes Gift Cards. You might receive an Apple Store Gift Card, but what if you actually wanted to use it for apps, music, or subscriptions on iTunes? The good news is, converting your Apple Store Gift Card to iTunes credit is possible, though it’s not as straightforward as you might hope. This guide will walk you through the process based on real user experiences and provide you with the most effective method.
Can You Convert Your Apple Store Gift Card to iTunes Gift Card Online?
If you’ve been searching online for a quick and easy way to convert your Apple Store Gift Card to an iTunes Gift Card through a website or online tool, you’re likely to be disappointed. According to user reports and direct experiences, there is no online method to directly convert these gift cards. The Apple redeem page might suggest options, but in practice, these options don’t extend to online conversions for iTunes credit when using an Apple Store Gift Card.
The Phone Call Method: Your Key to Conversion
Based on numerous user confirmations, the most reliable way to convert your Apple Store Gift Card to an iTunes Gift Code is by contacting Apple Support directly via phone. Here’s a step-by-step guide, compiled from successful user experiences:
Step-by-Step Guide to Convert Apple Store Gift Card to iTunes Gift Code
- Call Apple Support: Dial 1-800-MY-APPLE (1-800-676-2775) if you are in the U.S. For other regions, find the appropriate Apple Support number for your country.
- Request Gift Card Sales or Customer Service: When you connect, specifically ask to be directed to “Gift Card Sales” or “Customer Service.” Some users have reported being transferred from Sales to Customer Service, so going directly to Customer Service might save you time.
- Provide Gift Card Information: Be ready to provide the following details to the Apple representative:
- Gift Card Number: This is the 18-digit number located under the barcode on the back of your Apple Store Gift Card.
- PIN Code: You’ll also need the 16-character PIN code, also found on the back of the card, usually under a scratch-off area.
- Your Name: Provide your name for verification purposes.
- Email Address: Ensure you provide the correct email address where you want to receive your iTunes Gift Code.
- Confirm Email Receipt: Stay on the phone call until you receive the email with the subject line “Your iTunes Gift Code.” This confirmation step is crucial to ensure the process is successful before you end the call.
- Receive Your iTunes Gift Code: The email will contain a 16-character code. This is your iTunes Gift Code, which you can now redeem in iTunes or the App Store.
Important Considerations and Tips from Users
- Unused Gift Card is Essential: A critical condition for conversion is that the Apple Store Gift Card must be unused. If you have already used any portion of the gift card balance, the conversion will not be possible.
- Customer Service is Key: Some users were initially directed to Gift Card Sales, who then transferred them to Customer Service. To potentially streamline the process, directly request “Customer Service” when you call Apple Support.
- Wait for Email Confirmation: Do not hang up until you have received the confirmation email with your iTunes Gift Code. This ensures that the conversion has been processed and you have successfully received your code.
- Processing Time: While some users received the email immediately during the call, others reported waiting a few days. Be prepared for a potential processing time of up to 2-3 business days, as mentioned by some users.
Why This Conversion Process Exists? Understanding Apple Gift Cards
The need for this conversion process stems from the distinction between Apple Store Gift Cards and iTunes Gift Cards. Historically, Apple had separate gift cards:
- Apple Store Gift Cards: These were intended for purchases at the physical Apple Store or on the Apple Online Store, for hardware and accessories.
- iTunes Gift Cards (now Apple Gift Cards with broader use): These were specifically for digital content and services like music, movies, apps, and iCloud subscriptions within the iTunes and App Stores.
While Apple has since unified these into a single “Apple Gift Card” in some regions, older Apple Store Gift Cards might still be in circulation, leading to the need for conversion if you wish to use their value within the iTunes ecosystem.
Utilizing Your iTunes Gift Card
Once you have successfully converted your Apple Store Gift Card to an iTunes Gift Code, you can redeem it to add credit to your Apple ID. This credit can then be used for a variety of purchases, including:
- Apps and Games: Purchase apps and games from the App Store on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Music and Movies: Buy music, albums, and movies from the iTunes Store.
- TV Shows: Purchase TV shows and seasons.
- Books and Audiobooks: Get books and audiobooks from Apple Books.
- Apple Subscriptions: Pay for subscriptions like Apple Music, iCloud storage, Apple TV+, and Apple Arcade.
Conclusion
While an online conversion method would be more convenient, converting your Apple Store Gift Card to iTunes credit is still achievable by contacting Apple Support via phone. By following the steps outlined and keeping the important considerations in mind, you can successfully convert your gift card and enjoy iTunes content and services. Remember to have your gift card details ready and be patient during the process.
