Spotify announced on Friday that Apple has approved its latest update for the U.S. version of its iPhone app, enabling users to access pricing information and external payment links within the app. This approval arrives only days after a U.S. federal judge ordered Apple to cease charging developers commission fees for purchases made through apps on the iPhone.
Spotify spokesperson Jeanna Moran described the move as “a victory for consumers, artists, creators, and authors,” noting it marks nearly a decade-long effort by Spotify to introduce clear, transparent pricing and easier subscription management for its users. “Now we can offer consumers lower prices, greater control over their subscriptions, and simple access to everything Spotify has to offer,” Moran said, adding that although significant progress has been made, “there is still more work to do.”
Spotify’s new update, version 9.0.40, is currently being rolled out on the Apple App Store, making it one of the first major applications to pass this significant milestone. Under the updated policy, Spotify users in the U.S. will be able to see subscription pricing information directly within the app and follow links to make subscription purchases or changes on Spotify’s own website. By directing customers externally for these transactions, users and Spotify can bypass Apple’s standard 30% App Store service fee. Additionally, Spotify will now also be permitted to share promotional offers directly within the app.
On Wednesday, Apple had confirmed it would comply with the recent court ruling, though it strongly disagrees with the decision and plans to appeal. U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers ruled that Apple had violated prior orders requiring alterations to the App Store policy to allow developers to direct users to their websites for transactions. According to the ruling, Apple’s noncompliance was deliberate, suggesting attempts to construct new anticompetitive restrictions.
Spotify hailed this development as “the opening act of a new era,” describing it as a significant step forward towards leveling the playing field for developers and businesses aiming to compete fairly on Apple’s platform.
