Spotify claims that Apple is blocking iPhone app updates in the European Union. The updates allowed Spotify to embed pricing information and subscription links into the app directly. However, Apple seems to have made a move similar to Epic Games.
On the other hand, music streaming giant Spotify argues that Apple’s move is contrary to a decision taken by the European Commission against Apple.
Why doesn’t Apple approve Spotify’s update?
Spotify provided Apple with an update for the EU version on 5 March, including pricing information and links to its website. The company’s update came in response to the European Commission’s ruling that Apple’s anti-steering rules are “illegal”. It should allow developers to include information about alternative payment methods and subscription options.
While Apple has not commented on the update, it is said to be reviewing it but has not responded to Spotify. Spotify believes that Apple’s intentions are bad and that it is delaying the process.
Spotify has requested the European Commission’s assistance in addressing Apple’s behavior. The company wants the Commission to contact Apple and demand that Spotify approve its changes.
Reverse, Spotify spokesperson Jeanne Moren said in a statement, “It’s been nine days, and we’re still waiting to hear from Apple about our app rollout to show EU consumers pricing and a link to our website.”
It is not clear why Apple is blocking Spotify’s updates. Obviously, as I mentioned above, it may be the same behavior that Apple applied against Epic Games. In fact, if you remember, Apple recently canceled Epic Games’ developer license. In other words, we can say that Apple is worried about losing revenue from in-app subscriptions.
This tension between Spotify and Apple points to an important development for competition in the EU’s digital market. How the European Commission will react to Apple’s behavior and its consequences for Spotify and other app developers remains to be seen.
Featured image credit: Barış Selman
