Spotify’s latest attempt to include pricing information for direct subscriptions within its iPhone app for users in the European Union has hit a roadblock once more as Apple rejects the request.
Spotify submitted a revised version of its iOS app featuring in-app pricing details for EU users, indicating the costs of subscriptions made outside of Apple’s payment system. However, Apple has once again declined the update.
The rejection stems from Apple’s requirement for app developers to use the Music Streaming Services Entitlement and pay commissions on purchases made from external links. Despite an EU ruling earlier this year mandating that music streaming apps include external purchase links, Apple’s updated rules still enforce commission fees.
Apple’s spokesperson Hannah Smith shared Apple’s response to Spotify’s request, stating, “This entitlement is required even if your app does not include an external link… We will, however, approve version 8.9.33 after you accept the terms of the Music Streaming Services Entitlement (EEA) and resubmit it for review.”
In a bid to bypass Apple’s 30 percent commission on subscriptions via the App Store, Spotify’s latest version of the app omits direct links to subscription plans on its website. Instead, EU users are directed to visit Spotify’s website manually via a web browser to purchase cheaper subscription plans.
Spotify’s previous version of the app, which included website links, was submitted last month but was not approved by Apple. The latest version, which features minimal pricing and website information, aims to comply with the European Commission ruling that fined Apple €1.84 billion.
Spotify’s spokesperson Jeanne Moran criticized Apple’s actions, 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.”
The EU’s ruling followed a four-year investigation prompted by Spotify’s antitrust complaint in 2019 over the “Apple Tax.” The investigation found that Apple had “abused its dominant position in the market” by restricting music services from advertising cheaper subscription deals outside of the iOS platform.
While the EU’s Digital Markets Act forced Apple to make changes to its App Store, including introducing third-party app marketplaces and alternative fees for developers, Spotify has rejected Apple’s optional DMA changes, labeling the alternative Core Technology Fee as “extortion, plain and simple.”
Apple’s compliance with the EU rulings has been contentious, with the company expressing intent to appeal the €1.84 billion fine and facing criticism for its handling of Epic Games’ developer license revocation. The European Commission has intervened in ensuring Apple’s compliance with DMA regulations, emphasizing the need for real benefits for consumers.
Update: Apple has rejected Spotify’s submission.
