Spotify flags Apple over new potential violation of Digital Markets Act

Music streaming service Spotify is once again raising concerns about Apple’s compliance with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), this time over a technical change that could impact user experience.

Spotify claims that Apple has discontinued support for a technology that allowed Spotify users to control volume on connected devices using the physical buttons on their iPhones.

Spotify says this change, effective from September 3, will force users to adjust the volume via the Spotify Connect in-app menu rather than using their iPhone’s physical volume buttons. This alteration only affects Spotify Connect users on iOS, leaving Android, Bluetooth, and AirPlay users unaffected.

The move has drawn criticism from Spotify, which argues that Apple’s decision violates Article 6(7) of the DMA. This section mandates that “gatekeepers” — large technology firms like Apple — must provide effective interoperability with their hardware and software features to third-party service providers. Spotify insists that Apple’s actions could limit competition by restricting access to features that Apple’s own services, such as Apple Music, freely enjoy.

Spotify also contends that the discontinuation of the technology used by third-party apps to control iPhone volume has forced them into an unstable situation. They claim the technology was already unreliable before it was removed, causing issues like volume spikes. Apple suggested that Spotify apps integrate with Apple HomePod to regain this functionality, but Spotify argues this is not a fair solution as it differs from how other tech companies handle similar technologies.

Spotify says the issue highlights a broader problem with Apple’s practices, contrasting them with companies like Google and Samsung that reportedly offer better access to similar technologies for third-party developers.

While Apple has not yet commented on Spotify’s accusations, the dispute may prompt further scrutiny by EU regulators concerned with maintaining fair market competition under the new DMA framework.