Apple requires Spotify users to use in–app payment options – which Apple benefits from.
According to the Reuters news agency, Apple is threatening an additional EU antitrust lawsuit in the coming weeks in a dispute with the world’s largest music streaming provider Spotify. Reuters cited an insider.
This lawsuit could follow an investigation triggered by a complaint from Spotify. Additional claims, which are listed in a supplementary statement of objections, are usually brought against companies when the EU competition authorities have collected new evidence or changed some elements to support their arguments. The European Commission declined to comment. None was initially available from Apple.
The European Commission last year accused the iPhone maker of abusing a dominant position in music streaming services following a complaint from competitor Spotify. The Commission objected that competitors must use Apple’s in-app payment system. In addition, the US group forbids the rival to inform users of Apple devices about cheaper subscription alternatives.
