Spotify, the leading music streaming platform, announced on Friday that Apple has approved an update to its app that modifies how pricing information and purchase links are displayed. This change follows a recent court ruling that mandates Apple to allow app developers greater freedom in communicating with their customers.
This development comes in the wake of a federal judge’s order issued on Wednesday, which stated that Apple was in “willful violation” of a previous injunction from 2021. The ruling determined that Apple must cease its restrictions on how app developers inform users about pricing and subscription options. The case was initiated by Epic Games, the creator of Fortnite, and the decision forbids Apple from imposing commissions on purchases made outside of the app.
“This is a victory for consumers, artists, creators, and authors,” Spotify expressed in a statement. “After nearly a decade, Apple’s approval allows us to transparently display clear pricing information and purchase links, which enhances choice for consumers in the U.S.”
Spotify further emphasized that the update will empower consumers with lower prices, greater control, and easier access to its services. “While there is more work to be done, this marks a significant milestone for developers and entrepreneurs seeking a fairer competitive landscape,” the company added.
EU HANDS APPLE, META MASSIVE FINES DESPITE WARNINGS FROM TRUMP
“We are entering a new era, and we are fully prepared for what lies ahead,” Spotify remarked.
With the updated app, Spotify can now provide U.S. users with pricing details for subscriptions, along with promotional offers that could reduce costs for users.
U.S. users will also have the ability to select their desired subscription directly in the app, whether they are upgrading from a free account or changing to different premium options like student, duo, or family plans.
APPLE REPORTEDLY HAS FOLDABLE AND THINNER IPHONE MODELS IN THE PIPELINE
The app update also permits Spotify to accept various payment methods outside of Apple’s system, thereby expanding consumer payment options.
Moreover, Spotify indicated that this update “paves the way for other seamless purchasing opportunities that will significantly benefit creators, such as easy access to audiobooks.”
| Ticker | Security | Last | Change | Change % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AAPL | APPLE INC. | 213.32 | +0.82 | +0.39% |
| SPOT | SPOTIFY TECHNOLOGY SA | 602.26 | -11.72 | -1.91% |
CELINE DION’S MUSIC GETS BOOST FROM OLYMPICS OPENING CEREMONY, SPOTIFY CEO SAYS
The changes follow similar adjustments made for European users on Apple devices last year, aimed at providing clearer subscription options within the app.
Spotify has been vocal about its discontent with Apple’s App Store policies, asserting that “significant components of Apple’s anticompetitive barriers have now been dismantled, and this change has been long overdue. It should be standard practice for conducting business not just in the U.S., but globally.”
GET Finance Newso BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE
In response to the recent ruling, Apple has stated it “strongly disagrees” and plans to appeal, although it has agreed to comply with the court’s order for the time being.
