What to know

  • Spotify can now show pricing and offer direct subscription links in its iOS app for U.S. users.
  • This change follows a U.S. federal court ruling against Apple’s App Store commission practices.
  • Apple previously charged up to a 30% commission on in-app purchases and restricted external payment links.
  • Apple will comply with the ruling but plans to appeal the decision.

Spotify users in the United States can now see subscription prices and use direct links to purchase or upgrade their plans within the iOS app. This update comes after a U.S. federal judge ruled that Apple must allow developers to offer alternative payment methods and display pricing information, ending Apple’s long-standing practice of collecting commissions on in-app purchases.

For years, Apple required app developers to use its payment system for in-app purchases, taking a commission that could reach as high as 30%. Developers, including Spotify, were not allowed to show users pricing or direct them to external payment options. This policy led to complaints and legal challenges from companies who argued that Apple’s rules were unfair and anticompetitive.

Earlier this week, a U.S. District Court judge decided that Apple’s restrictions on web transactions were in bad faith and harmed competition. The court ordered Apple to stop collecting developer fees on purchases made outside its payment system. Spotify quickly responded by submitting an updated app, which Apple approved, allowing users to see clear pricing, access promotional offers, and choose alternative payment methods directly from the app.

Spotify called the update a significant milestone for developers and users, saying it brings more transparency and choice. The company noted that users can now upgrade from a free account to a premium plan and use payment options other than Apple’s system. Spotify also said this change is just the first step and that more work remains to ensure fair competition for all developers.

Apple stated that it would follow the court’s order but strongly disagrees with the decision and intends to appeal. The ruling is expected to impact other major apps and could lead to broader changes in how app stores operate in the U.S.

Via: Engadget