Apple Approves Spotify’s App Update Allowing Pricing Information and External Payment Links
Spotify announced on Friday that Apple has approved its U.S. app update, which will enable users to access pricing information and external payment links. This development comes shortly after a U.S. judge ruled that Apple must stop charging commissions on purchases made through iPhone apps.
Jeanna Moran, a spokesperson for Spotify, expressed excitement about the approval, stating, “In a victory for consumers, artists, creators, and authors, Apple has approved Spotify’s U.S. app update. After nearly a decade, this will finally allow us to freely display clear pricing information and links to purchase, promoting transparency and choice for U.S. consumers.”
Moran added, “We can now offer consumers lower prices, greater control, and easier access to the Spotify experience. While there is more work to be done, today marks a significant milestone for developers and entrepreneurs looking to compete on a more level playing field. This is just the beginning of a new era, and we are fully prepared for what lies ahead.”
The updated app, version 9.0.40, is currently being rolled out on the App Store, making Spotify one of the first major apps to implement this new update, enabling in-app purchases.
With the new update, Spotify can now inform customers about various subscription options and their respective costs directly within the iPhone app. Users will also have the ability to navigate to Spotify’s website to purchase or modify their subscription plan, bypassing Apple’s 30 percent service charge on in-app payments. Additionally, Spotify will be able to promote special offers to U.S. customers within the app.
While Apple has stated that it will comply with the court’s order, it has expressed strong disagreement with the decision and plans to appeal.
US District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers recently ruled that Apple had violated an order to reform its App Store by not allowing developers to direct customers to their websites for purchases. According to the ruling, Apple’s actions were deemed willful and intended to create new anticompetitive barriers.
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