How to merge iTunes libraries?

[jbloggs]

If content is spread over two separate libraries of two accounts, is there a way to merge these libraries? Or to browse the two libraries without haveing to switch accounts on an iDevice?

[bsweetness]

Originally Posted by jbloggs

If content is spread over two separate libraries of two accounts, is there a way to merge these libraries? Or to browse the two libraries without haveing to switch accounts on an iDevice?

There is no way to merge iTunes accounts.

There are ways of sharing locally stored content on local networks via Home Sharing, and you can authorize the same computer to work with multiple accounts, but I believe that only one account can be directly tied to an iPhone/iPad/iPod (which restricts purchases to that account only).

[jbloggs]

Originally Posted by bsweetness

There is no way to merge iTunes accounts.

There are ways of sharing locally stored content on local networks via Home Sharing, and you can authorize the same computer to work with multiple accounts, but I believe that only one account can be directly tied to an iPhone/iPad/iPod (which restricts purchases to that account only).

So the only way to share the content of two libraries on a single device (like Apple TV) is to first download it to a local hard drive and share that drive on the network? Any way to share without having to download first, i.e. streaming only.

[Zu Nim]

You can log into multiple accounts with an Apple TV and switch between them. It's not a merge, but it might be enough.

[minister_x]

Yes, once you've entered details for multiple iTunes accounts on the AppleTV, switching is just a case of going to Settings and Accounts and selecting the other one. Not the best for account sharing, but not horrific. Merging downloaded items is very easy. I believe a computer can be authorised for 5 accounts, and having them downloaded in one library which is then shared on the local network via Home Sharing works fine (that's what I do).

[jbloggs]

Great, thanks for all the information !

[carkey]

I believe they are going to have family sharing soon. You should be able to link the accounts and then it would show all the content under a single account. I would imagine it would be limited to the same country but time will tell

[Yumbo]

Originally Posted by jbloggs

If content is spread over two separate libraries of two accounts, is there a way to merge these libraries? Or to browse the two libraries without haveing to switch accounts on an iDevice?

iTunes Match can merge your music, ALL of it.