Apple has announced that it will allow music streaming apps in Europe to provide links to their own websites for purchases, following an antitrust investigation by the European Union.
The decision comes after the European Commission raised concerns about Apple's App Store policies, which required developers to use Apple's in-app purchasing system and pay a 30% commission on all transactions.
Under the new rules, music streaming apps such as Spotify and Deezer will be able to include a link in their app directing users to their own websites for subscription purchases, bypassing Apple's payment system and commission fees.
This move is seen as a significant concession by Apple, which has faced criticism from developers and regulators over its App Store practices. The company has been under increasing pressure to open up its platform and allow more flexibility for developers.
Apple's decision to allow music streaming apps to link to their own websites in Europe is expected to have a positive impact on competition in the digital music market. It will give users more choice and potentially lower prices, as apps can now offer subscriptions without having to factor in Apple's commission.
The European Commission has welcomed Apple's move as a step towards fair competition and consumer choice. This development could set a precedent for other app store platforms to reconsider their policies and make similar changes to promote a more level playing field for developers.
Overall, this decision marks a significant shift in Apple's approach to app store regulations and could have far-reaching implications for the digital economy in Europe and beyond.
