On Thursday, Spotify announced that it has sent an app update to Apple, which includes an external link for users to purchase subscriptions. This move follows a ruling by a U.S. judge who determined that Apple had not complied with orders to foster increased competition for app downloads.
The Swedish audio streaming service revealed its plans to modify its U.S. app in a letter to Apple, adhering to the court’s directive issued on Wednesday. The ruling prohibits Apple from imposing its new commission on purchases made outside of the app.
In a blog post, Spotify expressed frustration, stating, “It is absurd that we have not been able to deliver these basic services, which were permitted by the judge’s order four years ago.”
Apple has yet to respond to a request for comment from Reuters.
In an 80-page ruling, U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers in Oakland ruled that Apple failed to adhere to a previous injunction related to an antitrust lawsuit filed by Epic Games, the developer behind Fortnite.
While Apple stated it “strongly disagrees” with the ruling, it also indicated it would comply with the judge’s orders and intends to appeal.
The ongoing conflict between Spotify and Apple has revolved around the App Store’s policies and their implications for Spotify’s business operations.
In August 2024, Spotify had updated its app for Apple devices to include pricing details for its services in the European Union, following prior rejection of this feature by Apple.
In a separate development, Apple announced a $10 billion reduction to its share buyback program on Thursday. CEO Tim Cook informed analysts that tariffs could potentially add around $900 million in expenses for the current quarter.
© Thomson Reuters 2025
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