Apple has announced its plans to appeal the €1.84 billion fine imposed by the European Commission for anticompetitive practices in the streaming music market. In a newsroom post, Apple singled out Spotify, a company based in Stockholm, Sweden, as the main beneficiary of the EC’s decision, highlighting Spotify’s 56% market share in Europe.
Prior to the ruling, Apple had expressed its stance on Spotify’s complaint, stating that Spotify was seeking access to Apple’s tools without payment. Apple also revealed non-public information about Spotify’s operations on Apple platforms, including app testing and submissions to the App Store.
In response to the EC fine, Apple emphasized the scale of Spotify’s business and the European digital music market, which has seen significant growth in subscribers. Apple reiterated that Spotify does not pay App Store commissions as it sells subscriptions solely on Apple’s website.
While Apple introduced an exception for “reader apps” allowing external links, it retains control over approving implementations, leading to disputes with Spotify over in-app communication with customers regarding subscriptions and promotions.
Apple accuses Spotify of attempting to circumvent rules and benefit from Apple’s tools without compensation. Apple asserts its commitment to maintaining the App Store’s integrity and supporting innovative app development, while indicating its intent to appeal the EC’s decision.
Apple stated, “Every day, teams at Apple work to keep that dream alive by making the App Store the safest and best experience for users, empowering developers to create incredible apps, and driving innovations that enrich people’s lives.”
