In a significant development, Apple has greenlit an update for Spotify's U.S. app, allowing the streaming giant to display subscription prices and provide external payment links. This approval came after a landmark federal court ruling, highlighting a pivotal shift in the ongoing battle over Apple's App Store policies.
The catalyst for this change was a ruling by U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers. She determined that Apple must permit app developers to include external links for purchases without facing Apple's commission fees. As reported by Reuters, this decision directly challenged Apple's long-standing practice of collecting commissions on in-app transactions handled outside of Apple’s payment system.
Spotify welcomed the update, emphasizing that it plays a crucial role in ensuring transparency and consumer choice. Meanwhile, Apple has voiced its disagreement with the court's ruling but confirmed it would comply as it prepares an appeal. This approval has broader implications, reflecting ongoing legal and regulatory scrutiny of Apple's App Store operations and its fee structures.