Spotify Launches External Payment Links Following Court Ruling Against Apple

Spotify has updated its iPhone app to allow U.S. users to pay for subscriptions through external links, becoming the first major app to do so after Apple was compelled to loosen its App Store payment restrictions by a federal court order. The change follows U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers' ruling that Apple violated her previous injunction in the Epic Games antitrust lawsuit, mandating Apple stop restricting external payment links and cease charging commissions on such purchases. Spotify, a long-time critic of Apple's 30% fee and restrictive policies, claims this update offers consumers clearer pricing, more control, and potentially lower costs. Apple has stated it will comply with the ruling while appealing, though it has expressed strong disagreement with the decision. This development is seen as a significant milestone for app developers and could reshape the competitive landscape of digital services on iOS. Industry observers note that other developers are likely to follow Spotify’s lead as Apple’s App Store policies undergo increased legal scrutiny.