Users of Spotify’s iPhone app can now purchase audiobooks directly within the application. The company revealed on Monday that Apple had approved an updated version of the app that allows customers in the United States to view audiobook prices and buy them outside of the App Store.
In addition to allowing audiobook purchases, the new update enables Spotify Premium subscribers to acquire extra audiobook listening hours. This development follows the recent verdict in the Epic Games vs. Apple case, which significantly changed Apple’s control over its App Store. The ruling stipulates that Apple cannot impose fees on transactions made outside the platform or regulate how developers promote non-App Store purchases.
The update was submitted by Spotify the previous week and is now officially implemented. The streaming platform had removed audiobook sales from its iOS app in 2022, claiming that Apple’s App Store policies hindered competition and made it burdensome to buy audiobooks. Earlier this month, Spotify also began allowing iPhone users to subscribe outside the App Store.
Other iOS applications like Kindle, Patreon, and Delta’s emulator have also benefited from the recent court decision. Meanwhile, Epic Games continues its legal battle to reinstate Fortnite on the App Store. In its announcement, Spotify expressed that this enhancement reduces obstacles for users looking to access audiobooks, benefiting both publishers and authors in connecting with new audiences.
