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Spotify's App Update Rejected by Apple Over Price Information for EU Users
Apple rejects Spotify's app update with price information for EU users. Spotify accuses Apple of defying the European Commission's decision. Apple insists on Music Streaming Services Entitlement for app approval.
In a recent development, Apple has rejected Spotify's latest version of its iOS app, which includes in-app pricing information for users in the European Union. The Swedish audio streaming company revealed this setback on Thursday. Spotify had submitted the updated app to Apple, ensuring it complied with the European Commission's ruling on music streaming cases by including basic pricing and website information.
However, Apple responded by rejecting the update directly to Spotify. The tech giant's refusal to approve the app update has drawn criticism from Spotify, with a spokesperson stating, "Apple has once again defied the European Commission's decision, rejecting our update for attempting to communicate with customers about our prices unless we pay Apple a new tax. Their disregard for consumers and developers is matched only by their disdain for the law."
Apple has stated that it will reconsider the app update once Spotify accepts the terms of the Music Streaming Services Entitlement in the European Economic Area (EEA) and resubmits it for review. Apple clarified that this entitlement is mandatory, even if the app does not include an external link.
Under Apple's proposal, streaming services like Spotify would be allowed to include links to their websites within their apps to inform users about payment options outside of the App Store. However, Apple would charge a 27% commission on transactions made through these links. In the update submitted to Apple, Spotify did not include the in-app link, as it does not wish to be part of Apple's entitlement due to the new anti-steering restrictions and the 27% commission on digital purchases made through links.
The European Commission is currently assessing whether Apple has fully complied with its decision. Additionally, the Commission will evaluate any changes made by Apple to its App Store business terms under the Digital Markets Act. It is worth noting that in March, Apple was fined 1.84 billion euros (US$1.97 billion) by Brussels for impeding competition from music streaming rivals through restrictions on its App Store.
Apple rejects Spotify's app update with price information for EU users
Spotify accuses Apple of defying the European Commission's decision
Apple insists on Music Streaming Services Entitlement for app approval
Source: REUTERS