Legal Battles

Epic Games and Spotify Test Apple's New App Store Policies

Epic Games and Spotify Test Apple's New App Store Policies
Photo by James Yarema / Unsplash

In a groundbreaking shift in the mobile app landscape, Epic Games and Spotify have begun testing Apple’s newly revised App Store policies by submitting app versions that were previously restricted. These submissions mark a pivotal moment in the ongoing evolution of digital marketplaces and developer rights.

Epic Games Eyes Fortnite's Return to the App Store

After being removed from the App Store in 2020 for violating Apple's in-app purchase rules, Epic Games is now poised to reinstate Fortnite on iOS devices. The original conflict began when Epic integrated direct payment options in Fortnite, which spurred its antitrust lawsuit against Apple. Now, with Apple compelled to update its policies, Fortnite’s comeback symbolises a significant turning point in app monetisation.

Spotify Expands Audiobook Sales

Spotify is also seizing the opportunity presented by Apple’s policy changes. The streaming giant aims to:

  • Allow users to purchase audiobooks directly from within the app
  • Enable Premium subscribers to buy additional listening hours beyond the standard 15 free hours per month

These moves come in the wake of Apple recently approving the Amazon Kindle app to include a “Buy Book” button, indicating broader regulatory compliance and flexibility.

Apple’s policy overhaul follows a major antitrust ruling triggered by Epic’s lawsuit. Although Apple won most aspects of the case, a federal judge ruled the company had failed to adhere to previous court orders regarding third-party payment options. Key changes now include:

  • Permission for developers to link to external payment methods
  • Removal of the prior requirement for “scare screens” that discouraged web-based purchases
  • Elimination of the 27% commission on external web sales that Apple had imposed

These changes aim to eliminate anti-competitive practices and provide developers with greater freedom and revenue control.

Implications for Developers and the Tech Industry

This policy shift is expected to benefit not only tech giants like Epic Games and Spotify but also independent developers seeking flexible business models. By reducing friction in monetisation and encouraging innovation, Apple’s compliance could pave the way for a more open and competitive app ecosystem.

Conclusion

The testing of Apple’s revised App Store rules by major players such as Epic Games and Spotify underscores a new era in mobile app distribution. These developments could significantly alter revenue strategies, compliance norms, and platform dynamics for developers worldwide.