Spotify has asked Apple to approve a big update to its iPhone app. This update would allow users in the U.S. to pay for subscriptions without using Apple’s payment system. The change came after a court ruled that Apple could not force apps to use its payment methods or charge them extra fees.
The approval from Apple will allow Spotify users to see pricing information directly within the app. Spotify users can access Premium purchase options by clicking links on the company’s website and conducting payments through PayPal and various card methods. This could save money because Spotify would not have to pay Apple’s fees, which are up to 30% of each sale.
Why Spotify Made This Change
For years, Apple made rules that apps like Spotify could not tell users about cheaper payment options outside the App Store. A court case between Epic Games (the maker of Fortnite) and Apple changed this. The judge said Apple’s rules were unfair and must stop.
Spotify says this is a huge win for users. The company wrote in a blog post, “This lets us give people what they deserve. Now you can see prices, switch plans, and pay how you want.”
What the Update Lets You Do
Here is what the new Spotify app would include
- See real prices: Know exactly how much a Premium plan costs without leaving the app.
- Choose payment methods: Spotify users can select PayPal from their web service to make payments instead of using Apple Payments.
- Switch plans easily: Users can transition between Free accounts and Premium plans or switch Individual plans to Family plans by clicking a few times.
- More features soon: Spotify aims to integrate audiobook content with various paid materials directly in their application eco-system.
Spotify says these changes should have happened years ago. The company called Apple’s old rules “absurd” for blocking basic features.
How This Affects You
Good News for Your Wallet
If Spotify does not have to pay Apple’s fees, it might lower subscription prices. Right now, a Spotify Premium plan costs $10.99 per month through Apple. On Spotify’s website, it is $9.99. With the update, iPhone users can pay cheaper prices without having to go through extra steps.
Bad News for Convenience
Paying outside the app means leaving Spotify to finish the purchase on a website. Some users worry this will be annoying or lead to scams. Apple says its payment system is safer, but Spotify promises to protect users.
What Happens Next
Apple must review Spotify’s update and decide whether to allow it. Apple has fought similar changes in the past, like in Europe, where it added new fees to avoid losing money. The company says it will appeal the court ruling, so the battle is not over.
Other apps like Patreon are also trying to bypass Apple’s payments. Creators on Patreon could earn more money if fans pay directly instead of through Apple.
