Apple to let music streaming apps in Europe link to own websites for purchases

Published Sat, Apr 6, 2024 · 06:49 AM

Apple announced measures on Friday (Apr 5) to make it easier for music streaming apps on its App Store in the European Economic Area to inform users of other ways to purchase digital services, as it looks to comply with a European Union mandate.

The announcement comes weeks after the iPhone maker was fined 1.84 billion euros (S$2.69 billion) by the EU for thwarting competition from music streaming rivals via restrictions on its App Store.

The European Commission had said in March that Apple’s restrictions constituted unfair trading conditions and that it should stop such conduct.

Following a 2019 complaint by Swedish streaming service Spotify, the Commission charged Apple last year with preventing the Swedish company and others from informing users of payment options outside its App Store.

Apple on Friday said it would permit music streaming app developers to invite users to provide their email address for sending them a link to the developer’s website to purchase digital music content or services, and to inform them about where and how to purchase items as well as the price.

The company said that the announcement provides “even more” flexibility to music streaming service apps, including Spotify, which has 56 per cent share of the European market.

GET BT IN YOUR INBOX DAILY

Start and end each day with the latest news stories and analyses delivered straight to your inbox.

VIEW ALL

Spotify did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Apple, however, said the Commission’s decision does not address its ability to charge a commission for all the tools, technologies and ongoing services it provides. REUTERS

READ MORE

BT is now on Telegram!

For daily updates on weekdays and specially selected content for the weekend. Subscribe to  t.me/BizTimes

Companies & Markets

SUPPORT SOUTH-EAST ASIA'S LEADING FINANCIAL DAILY

Get the latest coverage and full access to all BT premium content.

SUBSCRIBE NOW

Browse corporate subscription here