Apple approves Spotify app updates that allow users to access pricing information, external payment links

Spotify said Friday that Apple has approved a US app update that will allow users to access pricing information and external payment links. The approval comes days after a US judge ordered Apple to stop claiming purchases via the iPhone app.

“As a victory for consumers, artists, creators and authors, Apple has approved an update to Spotify's US app,” Spotify spokesperson Jeanna Moran said in a statement to TechCrunch. “Nearly after 10 years, this will ultimately give you the freedom to display clear pricing information and links to promoting US consumer purchases, transparency and choice.”

She continued. “We've now become more accessible to consumers with lower prices, more control and more access to the Spotify experience. There's more work to do, but today it represents a key milestone for developers and entrepreneurs who want to build and compete on a more equal arena.

The updated app version 9.0.40 is currently available in the App Store. Spotify is one of the first major apps to get a new update to start buying.

Spotify yesterday submitted an update to Apple and noted that it can communicate each cost to customers within the various subscription options and iPhone apps. Users can also link to purchase or change their Spotify subscription plans on the company's website. On this website, this transaction is subject to Apple's 30% service charge for in-app payments. Additionally, Spotify said it will be able to communicate with customers about promotional offers for the app.

Apple said Wednesday that it would follow the court's order but would strongly oppose the decision and appeal it.

US District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers said Wednesday that Apple violated an order to reform the App Store. The tech giant has been told to change its app store to allow developers to send customers to their website for purchase. According to the ruling, Apple not only failed to comply with the order, but also intentionally did so with the intention of establishing new anti-competitive barriers.