Spotify has accused Apple of potentially violating the European Digital Markets Act (DMA) once again, raising concerns about the tech giant's compliance with regulations. This time, the issue revolves around how Apple has discontinued the technology that allowed Spotify users to control the volume on connected devices.

Previously, Spotify users streaming via Spotify Connect on iOS had the convenience of adjusting volume using the physical buttons on their iPhones. However, Apple's recent change means this feature will no longer be available. Instead, Spotify iOS users will now have to rely on the volume slider within the Spotify Connect menu to control the volume on their connected devices.

While this change does not impact users controlling volume on iOS Bluetooth or AirPlay sessions, it exclusively affects those listening through Spotify Connect on iOS. Starting from September 3, Spotify will guide its iOS users globally to use the new in-app volume slider as a workaround.

Interestingly, Spotify argues that Apple's decision to discontinue this technology could potentially violate Article 6(7) of the DMA. This particular article mandates big technology companies, such as Apple, to provide interoperability and similar solutions for third-party developers. Spotify claims that it had requested Apple to introduce a comparable solution for developers, similar to what exists for users of Apple HomePod or Apple TV. However, Apple reportedly required integration with HomePod for apps to access the volume control technology on iPhones, which Spotify was unable to achieve. Notably, Spotify points out that other companies like Google and Samsung manage access to similar technology differently.

Spotify also highlights that before discontinuation, the technology used for Spotify Connect was already degraded, causing problematic bugs such as volume spikes during streaming sessions. The company believes that the new interface, relying on the in-app volume slider, will improve consistency and control for users.

More information regarding this change can be found on Spotify's Customer Support page. Despite the allegations made by Spotify, Apple has not yet responded to requests for comment on the matter.

As regulators scrutinize major tech companies' compliance with regulations, Spotify's claims regarding Apple's discontinuation of volume control technology add another layer of concern surrounding the digital markets and interoperability practices employed by these tech giants.