Stop iTunes From Opening with Play Button on Mac

The Persistent Issue with iTunes on macOS

Many MacBook Pro users share a common sentiment: a fondness for the hardware coupled with frustration towards iTunes. This isn't an isolated experience, and the recurring presence of iTunes can be particularly irritating.

Despite preferring alternative music players, such as Vox, iTunes frequently reappears when initiating playback or connecting audio devices. This is due to its deeply integrated nature within the macOS ecosystem.

Why iTunes Keeps Reappearing

iTunes has evolved into a multifaceted application, functioning not only as a music player but also as a music store, a platform for TV and movie purchases, a backup utility for iPhones and iPads, and more. Its extensive functionality contributes to its persistent presence.

The desire to eliminate iTunes entirely is understandable, given the availability of specialized applications that cater to specific needs without the bloat of a comprehensive suite.

A Current Solution for Disabling iTunes

Over time, various methods have been proposed to prevent iTunes from automatically launching. However, these solutions often become ineffective with subsequent macOS updates.

Fortunately, a currently viable workaround exists. This method was successfully tested on macOS Sierra, and it may also function on older macOS versions.

Here's how to prevent iTunes from automatically launching:

• The specific steps involve modifying system settings to redirect certain functions away from iTunes.
• This ensures that when you press "Play" or connect a device, your preferred music player is utilized instead.

It's important to note that this solution addresses the automatic launching of iTunes, not its complete removal from the system. The application will still be present on your drive, but it won't interfere with your preferred audio setup.

Preventing iTunes From Controlling the Playback Key

Begin by navigating to Applications, then Utilities, and launching Terminal. Alternatively, utilize Spotlight search to quickly locate and open the Terminal application.

With Terminal open, execute the following command:

launchctl unload -w /System/Library/LaunchAgents/com.apple.rcd.plist

Let's clarify the function of this command, demystifying its operation:

• launchctl

  is a macOS utility designed for managing background processes known as agents.
• The term

  unload

  instructs

  launchctl

  to deactivate a specified agent.

• /System/Library/LaunchAgents/com.apple.rcd.plist

  denotes the precise location of the agent being disabled. This particular agent is responsible for initiating iTunes when the Play key is pressed.

After executing this command, test the Play key on your keyboard. It should no longer trigger iTunes to launch.

To further minimize iTunes activity, consider altering the default application assigned to handle music files. This will prevent iTunes from automatically opening when such files are accessed.

Additional Considerations

The launchctl command provides a direct method for disabling the iTunes playback key hijacking. This ensures a more customized media control experience.

Changing the default music player application offers an additional layer of control, preventing unintended iTunes launches. This is particularly useful if you prefer a different music player.

Reverting the Change and Restoring iTunes Functionality

The initial modification can be reversed by executing a single command within the Terminal application.

This command is as follows:

launchctl load -w /System/Library/LaunchAgents/com.apple.rcd.plist

Notice the similarity to the command used to disable the feature. The key difference lies in the use of the term load.

Instead of unload, the load command re-enables the system service responsible for iTunes integration.

Following execution of this command, simply initiate iTunes. The application should then function as expected, responding to play/pause commands.