Apple targets Spotify in eye-opening and lengthy statement after €1.8 billion EU fine

Yesterday, the European Commission published its reasoning behind the results of its investigations into what it has now described as Apple's 'abusive App store rules for music streaming providers'. For context, Spotify raised a complaint with the Commission in 2015. However, the Commission did not open formal proceedings for another five years.

In short, the Commission concluded that Apple has actively preventing music streaming services from advertising cheaper subscription options available outside of its App Store on iOS and iPadOS apps. Additionally, the Commission claimed that this practice went further and stopped app developers emailing customers detailing these offers. All in all, the Commission has fined Apple a total of €1.8 billion in line with its 2006 fine guidelines.

While the Commission's issues with Apple's policies extended to all music streaming service providers, the company has focused on Spotify in its response, which includes highlights like:

Ultimately, the fine imposed by the European Commission is not necessarily final and could be changed before the EU considers that it has become definitive. Likewise, Apple intends to appeal. Please see the European Commission's and Apple's press releases for more information.

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