Apple starts allowing external payment links in apps, Spotify hops on immediately

Apple has shifted its stance, updating its App Store rules to permit developers to include links directing users to external payment options. This change, affecting apps on the United States storefront, comes directly after yesterday’s court ruling. And guess who jumped in almost immediately? Spotify.

The tech giant tweaked its App Store Review Guidelines, essentially removing the previous ban on buttons or links that guide users away from Apple’s own in-app purchase system. Apple confirmed the update in an email to developers Thursday night, stating the changes were made for “compliance with a United States court decision,” as first reported by 9to5Mac.

So, what do the new rules say? Sections like 3.1.1 and 3.1.3 have been revised specifically for the US market. Now, apps aren’t prohibited from including “buttons, external links, or other calls to action” for things like managing accounts or purchasing digital goods outside the App Store’s payment system. Basically, developers like Spotify can now tell users directly in the app, “Hey, you can subscribe or buy this on our website, maybe even for less.”

Spotify didn’t waste a moment. The music streaming giant announced that it has submitted a new version of its app on Thursday afternoon, ready to take advantage of the relaxed rules by including external payment links. It’s a move many expected, given Spotify’s long-standing complaints about the App Store fees cutting into their revenue.

Other apps that rely on subscriptions or digital sales, like Patreon mentioned by Apple Insider, are likely also prepping their own updates. Elsewhere, payment processing company Stripe was also seen taking advantage of the situation, as they shared a quick guide for iOS developers on how to use their services for accepting payments.

Epic Games has also confirmed that it’ll be taking full advantage of the change. In a blog post, the company said that they’re kicking things off with a 0% store fee on the first $1 million in revenue per app each year. This means developers keep every penny until they hit that mark, then it’s back to the usual 12% cut. On top of that, they’re launching Epic Games Store Webshops, letting developers sell directly to players outside the app.

Apple, for its part, isn’t thrilled. They told 9to5Mac they “strongly disagree with the decision” but will comply while they pursue an appeal. It’s a significant concession, even if temporary or geographically limited for now.

What happens next is anyone’s guess. I, for one, hope these changes expand outside the US. No one should be forced to pay the “Apple tax” when subscribing or making for in-app purchases. For now, developers serving US customers have a new, more direct way to handle payments, and Spotify is leading the charge.