Apple’s Accusation: Spotify Seeks ‘Limitless Access’ to Tools for Free Amid $500M Fine Threat

Amidst escalating tensions, Apple Inc has leveled accusations against Spotify Technology SA (SPOT), alleging an attempt to gain unrestricted access to its tools without compensating for their value. This development coincides with reports suggesting that Apple may face a $500 million fine for its alleged anti-competitive App Store policies.

What Happened?

The EU is anticipated to levy a $500 million fine on Apple for its App Store policies concerning music streaming services, stemming from a complaint filed by Spotify in 2013. In response to the looming fine, Apple has restated its position, contending that Spotify’s complaint revolves around seeking unrestricted access to Apple’s tools without compensating for their value, as reported by 9to5Mac.

In a statement provided to the report, Apple expressed satisfaction in supporting the success of all developers, including Spotify, which stands as the largest music streaming app worldwide. Apple highlighted that Spotify pays nothing for the services that aid in the development, updates, and distribution of their app to users across 160 countries. The essence of Spotify’s complaint, according to Apple, revolves around seeking unrestricted access to all of Apple’s tools without compensating for the value provided.

In 2021, the EU’s preliminary conclusion suggested that the App Store exhibited unfair favoritism towards Apple Music compared to Spotify and other music streaming services. The forthcoming ruling will specifically focus on how Apple’s “anti-steering” rules impact music streaming services, with the scope limited to this sector and not extending to other categories of apps.

Over the past weekend, initial reports regarding Apple’s $500 million fine surfaced. However, the European Commission has yet to formally announce the decision, leaving the fine amount subject to potential variation.

Over time, Apple has updated its App Store Guidelines. These revisions now permit apps such as Spotify to include links to their websites for account management and engage directly with customers regarding payment methods outside of their iOS app, as mentioned in the report.

Amidst ongoing disputes between Apple and various entities, the EU’s decision to fine the tech giant has emerged. This move coincides with Spotify’s announcement in January of its intention to bypass Apple’s 30% App Store fee in Europe by enabling in-app purchases. This strategic maneuver was widely perceived as a response to the introduction of new competition regulations aimed at major technology companies in Europe.

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