Spotify has become the first app to allow external payment options directly within its iOS and iPadOS apps following Apple’s policy adjustments regarding in-app purchases. This groundbreaking move comes just hours after a California District Court ruled against Apple, requiring them to permit external payment options within apps sold in the U.S.
This victory has been met with enthusiasm by Spotify. In a statement to 9to5Mac, Spotify spokesperson Jeanne Mora expressed their excitement, emphasizing the increased transparency and choice for U.S. consumers. This change allows Spotify to offer lower prices, more control, and simplified access to the Spotify experience. Mora also highlighted the significance of this milestone for developers and entrepreneurs, marking a “new era” of fairer competition.
The District Court’s ruling stemmed from Apple’s failure to comply with the 2021 judgment in the Apple vs. Epic Games antitrust case. Consequently, Apple updated its app review guidelines, lifting the prohibition on “buttons, external links, or other calls to action” for payments outside the app. Although these changes were technically implemented in 2024, Apple previously required developers to apply for special permission to enable external payments. Before this change, Apple collected 27% of any external payment processed through an app; now, they will receive no commission.
The updated Spotify app in the U.S. offers several key changes: clear pricing details within the app, including subscription costs and promotions; direct links to purchase subscriptions, upgrade from Free to Premium plans, and easily change between Premium plan types (Individual, Student, Duo, Family); access to a broader range of payment options beyond Apple’s system; and the potential for future seamless buying opportunities, such as audiobooks, that directly benefit creators.
While Spotify is the first, it certainly won’t be the last app to adopt external payments. It’s important to note that these changes currently only apply to apps sold in the U.S. The pricing changes are currently rolling out to Spotify users in the U.S., so if you haven’t seen them yet on your iPhone or iPad, expect them soon.
