Spotify spokesperson Jeanne Moran described the approval as a major victory for consumers, artists, creators, and authors. “After nearly a decade, Apple’s approval of our U.S. app update finally allows us to clearly display pricing information and provide direct purchase links. This will bring greater transparency and choice to American users,” she said.
Moran added, “We can now offer users lower prices, more control, and easier access to the Spotify experience. While there’s still work to be done, today marks a critical milestone for developers and entrepreneurs everywhere who want to innovate and compete on a more level playing field. It’s the beginning of a new era, and we’re more than ready.”
The updated app, version 9.0.40, is now live on the App Store. Spotify is among the first major apps to roll out a new update under the revised rules, kickstarting a shift in how in-app purchases are handled.
In its recent submission to Apple, Spotify said the update would allow it to inform users about different subscription options and their respective prices directly within the iPhone app. Users will also be able to follow external links to Spotify’s website to purchase or change their subscription plans, bypassing Apple’s standard 30% service fee on in-app transactions. Additionally, Spotify will now be able to inform U.S. users about promotional offers inside the app.
Apple, on Wednesday, stated it would comply with the court’s order but expressed strong disagreement with the ruling and confirmed plans to appeal.
U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers ruled that Apple had violated a previous order requiring reforms in its App Store policies to allow developers to direct users to their own websites for purchases. The judge said Apple not only failed to comply but also intentionally created new anti-competitive barriers.
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