Apple has updated its App Store policies in the United States, allowing developers to include links to third-party payment platforms. This change comes in response to a U.S. court order and represents a significant shift in how Apple manages its digital marketplace. Music streaming platform Spotify was the first to take advantage of the updated guidelines, announcing that it can now show clear pricing and provide external links for purchases directly within its app.

The policy change follows a strong warning from U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers, who ruled that Apple had intentionally violated an earlier court order. The judge accused Apple of imposing new obstacles—such as warning screens—to discourage users from making purchases outside the App Store. She ruled that Apple’s actions amounted to a refusal to comply with her injunction and ordered that the decision be enforced. While Apple has said it will appeal the ruling, the company has agreed to comply in the meantime.

Spotify quickly responded to the development, describing the app update as a major win for developers, consumers, and digital creators. The company shared the news in a post on X, formerly Twitter, celebrating the opportunity to offer more transparent purchasing options. Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney also praised the change, calling it a major victory for digital commerce and a long-overdue end to Apple’s commission structure in the U.S. He likened the move to similar changes already implemented in Europe under the Digital Markets Act.

Apple’s services division—which includes the App Store, Apple Music, iCloud, and other digital offerings—currently accounts for over a quarter of its total revenue. The ruling, and Apple’s compliance with it, could have significant implications for that part of the business. Analysts believe the company may be seeking to preserve its reputation among developers, even at the cost of some revenue. However, many smaller developers may still choose to use Apple’s in-house system, as creating alternative payment setups can be expensive and complex.

Apple is expected to address the policy change and other updates during its annual Worldwide Developers Conference in June. Although the legal battle is ongoing, the company’s decision to allow external payment links marks a pivotal moment in the effort to open up the app economy and reduce the power of dominant platforms over digital transactions.