Apple has approved an updated version of Spotify's U.S. app, allowing the popular music streaming service to include external links for subscription purchases. This approval follows a U.S. court ruling that found Apple in contempt of a previous injunction demanding more competition in its App Store policies, as reported by Reuters.
The update, which Spotify submitted, enables users to subscribe directly through Spotify's own website, circumventing the App Store's commission fees. This comes after U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers ruled that Apple's actions were in contempt of a 2021 injunction designed to increase competition for app distribution and purchasing. Despite Apple's intent to appeal, the company has nonetheless complied with the ruling by approving the update.
Spotify has consistently criticized Apple's commission structure, expressing that the recent update marks a victory for greater transparency and consumer choice. The market reacted positively to the announcement, with Reuters noting a 6% rise in Spotify's shares, suggesting increased investor confidence in the company's competitive positioning.