In a recent complaint to the European Commission, music streaming giant Spotify has accused Apple of delaying the approval of its app update, which includes subscription pricing information and links to its website. Spotify alleges that Apple has neither acknowledged nor responded to its submission in the App Store.

This development follows the European Commission's fine of nearly $2 billion against Apple on March 4, stating that the tech company had abused its dominant market position by preventing music streaming services from informing users about more affordable subscription options outside of their iOS apps. According to the EC, this practice violates EU antitrust rules.

As part of the ruling, Apple was directed to remove "anti-steering provisions" within the European Union. Consequently, on March 5, Spotify submitted an app update that incorporated different subscription pricing tiers and the option for users to pay without using in-app purchases. However, Spotify claims that it has received no response from Apple since then.

Spotify has expressed frustration to the European Commission, characterizing Apple's lack of response as "yet another example" of the company attempting to circumvent or not comply with the EC's decision. Spotify has urged the EC to require Apple to approve the app update promptly.

In a statement to The Verge, Spotify highlighted that Apple's delay contradicts the company's claims of reviewing app submissions within 24 hours. Additionally, Spotify suggested that Apple's actions are contrary to the timeline established by the European Commission for adoption.

Notably, the European Commission's ruling regarding the removal of anti-steering rules is separate from the app ecosystem changes enacted by Apple in the European Union to adhere to the Digital Markets Act (DMA).

Under the provisions of the DMA, Spotify is granted permission to distribute its app to EU users outside of the App Store but is required to pay Apple's Core Technology Fee for each user. However, at present, Spotify does not pay any commission to Apple.

The DMA also allows Spotify to direct users to its website for purchases while delivering information on in-app promotions, discounts, etc. However, implementing these changes would necessitate Spotify agreeing to Apple's updated business terms and fees. It remains uncertain whether Spotify has adopted Apple's terms or submitted their update without doing so.

Apple's delay in responding to Spotify's app submission has sparked discussion among users, with mixed reactions to the ongoing dispute. While some believe Spotify purposely submitted a broken or rule-breaking app to instigate Apple's refusal or delay, others perceive Apple's actions as an abuse of control and a reluctance to comply with the EC's decision.

The European Commission's investigations into Apple's practices have raised questions about the company's anti-competitive actions and its impact on the market. Apple's response to these allegations and its compliance with the EC's ruling will undoubtedly shape the outcome of this ongoing dispute.

As of now, Apple has yet to comment on Spotify's claims, leaving both parties and users eagerly awaiting further developments.