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Spotify has accused Apple of sabotaging the volume control feature for Spotify Connect users on iOS devices. This accusation stems from Apple’s decision to discontinue the technology that previously allowed users to control the volume of connected devices directly from their iPhones using physical buttons. As a result of this change, which took effect on September 3, 2024, Spotify iOS users must now use an in-app volume slider to adjust the volume on connected devices. This change does not affect volume control for iOS Bluetooth, AirPlay sessions, or Android devices.
Spotify’s Statement
Spotify has been vocal about its grievances. The Swedish streaming service noted:
- “Apple continues to make it increasingly harder for Spotify to enjoy a level playing field on its platform, ultimately deteriorating our user experience.”
- “These recent changes have crippled our volume control, turning a seamless experience into a frustrating ordeal for our users.”
The quote is unequivocal in its positioning, blaming Apple directly for, as Spotify sees it, intentionally anti-competitive behaviour.
Apple’s Response
In response, Apple has firmly denied these allegations. According to a company spokesperson:
- “We have not made any changes that would affect the Spotify Connect feature. Any malfunctions are purely coincidental and likely due to issues within Spotify’s own app.”
Apple maintains that it’s an advocate for developers across its ecosystem, providing tools and resources to help apps thrive. The company states that its goal is to benefit its user base and give developers a competitive platform on which they can innovate and grow.
Spotify has criticized this move as a violation of the Digital Markets Act (DMA), specifically Article 6(7), which requires gatekeepers like Apple to allow interoperability between their platforms and third-party services. This accusation adds to a series of disputes between Spotify and Apple over Apple’s platform policies, including previous allegations of anti-competitive practices related to in-app purchases and links
